Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 51220-51223 [2023-16554]
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 148 / Thursday, August 3, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
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,
and
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2023–15–04 S.A. (Type Certificate
Previously Held by Yabora˜ Indu´stria
Aerona´utica S.A.; Embraer S.A.):
Amendment 39–22516; Docket No.
FAA–2023–1646; Project Identifier
MCAI–2023–00065–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective August 18, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Embraer S.A. (Type
Certificate previously held by Yabora˜
Indu´stria Aerona´utica S.A.; Embraer S.A.)
Model ERJ 190–300 and –400 airplanes,
certificated in any category.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 34, Navigation.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by identification
that, during simulations, analysis, and an inservice event of the airplane, a stall warning
system activation (i.e., stick shaker) and
angle of attack (AOA) limiter engagement
may occur in certain vertical gust conditions
with specific intensity and frequency. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address certain
vertical gust conditions, which in
combination with certain weight, speed, and
aerodynamic configurations, could cause a
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nose up movement of the airplane after the
stick shaker activation. The unsafe condition,
if not addressed, could induce an unexpected
airplane response affecting its controllability.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, Ageˆncia Nacional de
Aviac¸a˜o Civil (ANAC) AD 2023–01–01,
effective January 18, 2023 (ANAC AD 2023–
01–01).
(h) Exceptions to ANAC AD 2023–01–01
(1) Where ANAC AD 2023–01–01 refers to
its effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where paragraph (a) of ANAC AD
2023–01–01 specifies to revise certain
information, replace the text ‘‘introduce the
following’’, with ‘‘incorporate the
information in the following’’.
(3) The ‘‘Alternative methods of
compliance (AMOC)’’ section of ANAC AD
2023–01–01 does not apply to this AD.
(i) Additional AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): 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
responsible Flight Standards Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (j) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov.
Before using any approved AMOC, notify
your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA; or ANAC; or ANAC’s
authorized Designee. If approved by the
ANAC Designee, the approval must include
the Designee’s authorized signature.
(j) Additional Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Joshua Bragg, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 817–
222–5366; Joshua.K.Bragg@faa.gov.
(k) 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.
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(i) Ageˆncia Nacional de Aviac
¸a˜o Civil
(ANAC) AD 2023–01–01, effective January
18, 2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For ANAC AD 2023–01–01, contact
National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC),
Aeronautical Products Certification Branch
(GGCP), Rua Dr. Orlando Feirabend Filho,
230—Centro Empresarial Aquarius—Torre
B—Andares 14 a 18, Parque Residencial
Aquarius, CEP 12.246–190—Sa˜o Jose´ dos
Campos—SP, Brazil; telephone 55 (12) 3203–
6600; email: pac@anac.gov.br; website
anac.gov.br/en/. You may find this ANAC
AD on the ANAC website at
sistemas.anac.gov.br/certificacao/DA/
DAE.asp.
(4) You may view this material 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.
(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 25, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–16384 Filed 8–2–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–0937; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–00134–R; Amendment
39–22507; AD 2023–14–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model EC155B1
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
reports of failure of the main gearbox
(MGB) oil cooling fan hub (fan hub).
This AD requires, for helicopters with
an affected part (fan hub) installed,
using an endoscope, repetitively
inspecting the fan hub, including the
area around the fan hub attachment
screws, for a crack. Depending on the
inspection results, this AD requires
performing additional inspections and
replacing an affected fan hub. This AD
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 148 / Thursday, August 3, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
also allows an affected fan hub to be
installed on a helicopter if certain
actions are accomplished, as specified
in a European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD, which is
incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective September 7,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of September 7, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–0937; 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 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.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For EASA material identified in this
final rule, contact EASA, KonradAdenauer-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. It is also available
at regulations.gov under Docket No.
FAA–2023–0937.
Other Related Service Information:
For Airbus Helicopters service
information identified in this AD,
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/en/products-services/
helicopters/hcare-services/airbusworld.
You may also view this service
information at the FAA contact
information under Material
Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevin Kung, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781)
238–7244; email: 9-AVS-AIR-BACOCOS@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued a series of EASA ADs
with the most recent being EASA AD
2022–0006R2, dated January 31, 2022
(EASA AD 2022–0006R2), to correct an
unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters
Model EC 155 B1 helicopters.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Airbus Helicopters Model
EC155B1 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
May 12, 2023 (88 FR 30682). The NPRM
was prompted by reports of failure of
the fan hub.
The NPRM proposed to require, for
helicopters with an affected fan hub
installed, using an endoscope,
repetitively inspecting the fan hub,
including the area around the fan hub
attachment screws, for a crack.
Depending on the inspection results, the
NPRM proposed to require performing
additional inspections and replacing an
affected fan hub. The NPRM also
proposed to also allow an affected fan
hub to be installed on a helicopter if
certain actions proposed in the NPRM
have been accomplished as specified in
EASA AD 2022–0006R2.
You may examine EASA AD 2022–
0006R2 in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2023–0937.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These helicopters have 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 has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in its AD. The FAA reviewed the
relevant data 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. Except
for minor editorial changes, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2022–0006R2 requires, for
helicopters with a certain partnumbered fan hub installed, repetitively
inspecting the fan hub, including the
area around the fan hub attachment
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51221
screws, for a crack. EASA AD 2022–
0006R2 also requires, if there is a crack,
additional inspections, replacing an
affected fan hub, and sending certain
information to Airbus Helicopters.
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 ADDRESSES.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
EC155–05A039, Revision 0, dated
January 6, 2022. This service
information specifies procedures, using
an endoscope, to inspect the fan hub
and the fan hub attachment screws for
a crack. This service information also
specifies procedures to interpret the
results of the endoscope inspection; and
depending on the results, performing
close monitoring, replacing an affected
fan hub, and sending certain
information to Airbus Helicopters.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
EASA AD 2022–0006R2 requires
replacing each affected fan hub with a
serviceable fan hub if any crack is
detected, whereas this AD requires
removing each affected fan hub from
service and replacing it with a
serviceable fan hub if any crack is
detected.
Service information referenced in
EASA AD 2022–0006R2 specifies
sending certain information, including
pictures, to the manufacturer, whereas
this AD does not.
Interim Action
The FAA considers that this AD is an
interim action. If final action is later
identified, the FAA might consider
further rulemaking then.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 10 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.
Inspecting the fan hub, including each
fan hub attachment screw, and
interpreting the results takes about 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85
per inspection and $850 for the U.S.
fleet per inspection cycle.
Replacing an affected fan hub with a
serviceable fan hub takes about 8 workhours and parts cost about $7,273 for an
estimated cost of $7,953 per fan hub
replacement.
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 148 / Thursday, August 3, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
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:
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
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:
■
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:48 Aug 02, 2023
Jkt 259001
2023–14–07 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–22507; Docket No.
FAA–2023–0937; Project Identifier
MCAI–2022–00134–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective September 7, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters
Model EC155B1 helicopters, certificated in
any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6320, Main rotor gearbox.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of failure
of the main gearbox (MGB) oil cooling fan
hub (fan hub). The FAA is issuing this AD
to inspect for cracks on and around the fan
hub. The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in an undetected loss of
lubrication of the MGB or engine and
reduced 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 (EASA) AD 2022–
0006R2, dated January 31, 2022 (EASA AD
2022–0006R2).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022–0006R2
(1) Where EASA AD 2022–0006R2 requires
compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD
requires using hours time-in-service (TIS).
(2) Where EASA AD 2022–0006R2 refers to
its effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (2.2) of EASA AD
2022–0006R2 requires within 50 FH [flight
hours] after crack detection around the
attachment screw, replace the affected part
[fan hub] with a serviceable part, for this AD,
within 50 hours TIS after crack detection
around the attachment screw, remove the
affected fan hub from service, and replace it
with a serviceable fan hub.
(4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022–
0006R2 requires replacing an affected part
with a serviceable part before next flight if
any crack is detected in any area other than
around the attachment screw, for this AD, if
any crack is detected in any area other than
around the attachment screw, before further
flight, remove the affected fan hub from
service, and replace it with a serviceable fan
hub.
(5) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0006R2
specifies to ‘‘make sure that there is no
crack,’’ this AD requires inspecting the area
for a crack.
(6) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0006R2
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specifies to discard certain parts, this AD
requires removing those parts from service.
(7) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0006R2
specifies creating a Technical Event and
sending certain information to Airbus
Helicopters, this AD does not include those
requirements.
(8) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0006R2
specifies to use tooling, this AD allows the
use of equivalent tooling.
(9) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2022–0006R2.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0006R2
specifies to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(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: 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.
(l) Additional Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Kevin Kung, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781) 238–
7244; email: 9-AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2022–0006R2, dated January 31,
2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022–0006R2, 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
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 148 / Thursday, August 3, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(5) 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.
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, the mandatory
continuing airworthiness information
(MCAI), any comments received, and
other information. The 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.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For service information identified
in this final rule, contact EASA, Konraddenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000;
email: ADs@easa.europa.eu. You may
find this material on the EASA website
at ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety
Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110. It is also
available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2023–1043.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevin Clark, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (781) 238–
7088; email: kevin.m.clark@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran)
Model Arrius 2B2 engines. This AD is
prompted by the manufacturer revising
the airworthiness limitations section
(ALS) of the existing engine
maintenance manual (EMM),
introducing new and more restrictive
tasks and limitations for certain lifelimited parts. This AD requires revising
the ALS of the existing EMM or
instructions for continued airworthiness
(ICA) and the existing approved
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, by incorporating the actions
and associated thresholds and intervals,
including life limits, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference (IBR). The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective September 7,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of September 7, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–1043; or in person at
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Safran Model Arrius 2B2
engines. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on May 15, 2023 (88
FR 30911). The NPRM was prompted by
EASA AD 2022–0203, dated September
30, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0203), issued
by EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union (also referred to as the MCAI).
The MCAI states that the manufacturer
published a revised ALS introducing
new and more restrictive tasks and
limitations for certain life-limited parts.
The more restrictive tasks and
limitations include replacing lifelimited parts before exceeding the
applicable life limit, performing
applicable maintenance tasks, and
revising the approved aircraft
maintenance program.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require accomplishing the actions
specified in the MCAI described
previously. 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–2023–1043.
Issued on July 27, 2023.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–16554 Filed 8–2–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–1043; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01295–E; Amendment
39–22515; AD 2023–15–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Safran
Helicopter Engines, S.A. Engines
AGENCY:
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
SUMMARY:
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51223
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These products have been approved
by the aviation authority of another
country and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with this
State of Design Authority, it has notified
the FAA of the unsafe condition
described in the MCAI referenced
above. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data and determined that air safety
requires adopting this AD as proposed.
Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products. Except for minor editorial
changes, this AD is adopted as proposed
in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2022–
0203, which specifies instructions for
accomplishing the actions specified in
the applicable ALS, including replacing
life-limited parts, performing
maintenance tasks, and revising the
existing approved aircraft maintenance
program by incorporating the
limitations, tasks, and associated
thresholds and intervals described in
the ALS.
This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal
course of business or by the means
identified in ADDRESSES.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI
Paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022–0203
requires replacing each component
before exceeding the applicable life
limit and, within the thresholds and
intervals, accomplishing all applicable
maintenance tasks after its effective
date, this AD requires revising the ALS
of the existing EMM or ICA and the
existing approved maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, by
incorporating the actions specified in
paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022–0203,
within 90 days after the effective date of
this AD. This AD does not require
compliance with paragraphs (2) through
(5) of EASA AD 2022–0203.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 185 engines installed on
helicopters of U.S. registry.
E:\FR\FM\03AUR1.SGM
03AUR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 148 (Thursday, August 3, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 51220-51223]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-16554]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-0937; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00134-R;
Amendment 39-22507; AD 2023-14-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model EC155B1 helicopters. This AD was prompted by
reports of failure of the main gearbox (MGB) oil cooling fan hub (fan
hub). This AD requires, for helicopters with an affected part (fan hub)
installed, using an endoscope, repetitively inspecting the fan hub,
including the area around the fan hub attachment screws, for a crack.
Depending on the inspection results, this AD requires performing
additional inspections and replacing an affected fan hub. This AD
[[Page 51221]]
also allows an affected fan hub to be installed on a helicopter if
certain actions are accomplished, as specified in a European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective September 7, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 7,
2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2023-0937; 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 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.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For EASA material identified 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. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-0937.
Other Related Service Information: For Airbus Helicopters service
information identified in this AD, 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/en/products-services/helicopters/hcare-services/airbusworld. You may also view this
service information at the FAA contact information under Material
Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin Kung, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781)
238-7244; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued a series of EASA ADs with the most recent
being EASA AD 2022-0006R2, dated January 31, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-
0006R2), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model EC
155 B1 helicopters.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Helicopters
Model EC155B1 helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on May 12, 2023 (88 FR 30682). The NPRM was prompted by reports of
failure of the fan hub.
The NPRM proposed to require, for helicopters with an affected fan
hub installed, using an endoscope, repetitively inspecting the fan hub,
including the area around the fan hub attachment screws, for a crack.
Depending on the inspection results, the NPRM proposed to require
performing additional inspections and replacing an affected fan hub.
The NPRM also proposed to also allow an affected fan hub to be
installed on a helicopter if certain actions proposed in the NPRM have
been accomplished as specified in EASA AD 2022-0006R2.
You may examine EASA AD 2022-0006R2 in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-0937.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These helicopters have 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 has notified the FAA of the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data 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. Except for minor editorial changes,
this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2022-0006R2 requires, for helicopters with a certain part-
numbered fan hub installed, repetitively inspecting the fan hub,
including the area around the fan hub attachment screws, for a crack.
EASA AD 2022-0006R2 also requires, if there is a crack, additional
inspections, replacing an affected fan hub, and sending certain
information to Airbus Helicopters.
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 ADDRESSES.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
EC155-05A039, Revision 0, dated January 6, 2022. This service
information specifies procedures, using an endoscope, to inspect the
fan hub and the fan hub attachment screws for a crack. This service
information also specifies procedures to interpret the results of the
endoscope inspection; and depending on the results, performing close
monitoring, replacing an affected fan hub, and sending certain
information to Airbus Helicopters.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2022-0006R2 requires replacing each affected fan hub with a
serviceable fan hub if any crack is detected, whereas this AD requires
removing each affected fan hub from service and replacing it with a
serviceable fan hub if any crack is detected.
Service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0006R2 specifies
sending certain information, including pictures, to the manufacturer,
whereas this AD does not.
Interim Action
The FAA considers that this AD is an interim action. If final
action is later identified, the FAA might consider further rulemaking
then.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 10 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.
Inspecting the fan hub, including each fan hub attachment screw,
and interpreting the results takes about 1 work-hour for an estimated
cost of $85 per inspection and $850 for the U.S. fleet per inspection
cycle.
Replacing an affected fan hub with a serviceable fan hub takes
about 8 work-hours and parts cost about $7,273 for an estimated cost of
$7,953 per fan hub replacement.
[[Page 51222]]
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:
2023-14-07 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-22507; Docket No. FAA-
2023-0937; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00134-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective September 7,
2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model EC155B1
helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6320, Main rotor
gearbox.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of failure of the main gearbox
(MGB) oil cooling fan hub (fan hub). The FAA is issuing this AD to
inspect for cracks on and around the fan hub. The unsafe condition,
if not addressed, could result in an undetected loss of lubrication
of the MGB or engine and reduced 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 (EASA) AD
2022-0006R2, dated January 31, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0006R2).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022-0006R2
(1) Where EASA AD 2022-0006R2 requires compliance in terms of
flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service (TIS).
(2) Where EASA AD 2022-0006R2 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (2.2) of EASA AD 2022-0006R2 requires within
50 FH [flight hours] after crack detection around the attachment
screw, replace the affected part [fan hub] with a serviceable part,
for this AD, within 50 hours TIS after crack detection around the
attachment screw, remove the affected fan hub from service, and
replace it with a serviceable fan hub.
(4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022-0006R2 requires
replacing an affected part with a serviceable part before next
flight if any crack is detected in any area other than around the
attachment screw, for this AD, if any crack is detected in any area
other than around the attachment screw, before further flight,
remove the affected fan hub from service, and replace it with a
serviceable fan hub.
(5) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0006R2 specifies to ``make sure that there is no crack,'' this AD
requires inspecting the area for a crack.
(6) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0006R2 specifies to discard certain parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service.
(7) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0006R2 specifies creating a Technical Event and sending certain
information to Airbus Helicopters, this AD does not include those
requirements.
(8) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0006R2 specifies to use tooling, this AD allows the use of
equivalent tooling.
(9) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2022-0006R2.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0006R2 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer,
this AD does not include that requirement.
(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) Additional Information
For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Kung, Aviation
Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone (781) 238-7244; 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022-0006R2,
dated January 31, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022-0006R2, 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
[[Page 51223]]
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call
(817) 222-5110.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on July 27, 2023.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-16554 Filed 8-2-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
