Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 60402-60406 [2023-18612]
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60402
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 169 / Friday, September 1, 2023 / Proposed Rules
TABLE 1 TO § 217.406—SHORT-TERM WHOLESALE FUNDING COMPONENTS AND WEIGHTS
Remaining
maturity of 30
days of less or
no maturity
(percent)
Component of short-term wholesale funding
Category 1 ...............................................................................
(1) Secured funding transaction secured by a level 1 liquid asset;
(2) Unsecured wholesale funding where the customer or
counterparty is not a financial sector entity or a consolidated subsidiary thereof;
(3) Brokered deposits and sweep deposits provided by a
retail customer or counterparty; and
(4) Short positions where the borrowed asset does not
qualify as either a level 1 liquid asset or level 2A liquid asset.
Category 2 ...............................................................................
(1) Secured funding transaction secured by a level 2A
liquid asset; and
(2) Covered asset exchanges involving the future exchange of a Level 1 liquid asset for a Level 2A liquid
asset.
Category 3 ...............................................................................
(1) Secured funding transaction secured by a level 2B
liquid asset;
(2) Covered asset exchanges (other than those described in Category 2); and
(3) Unsecured wholesale funding (other than unsecured
wholesale funding described in Category 1).
Category 4 ...............................................................................
Any other component of short-term wholesale funding.
By order of the Board of Governors of the
Federal Reserve System.
Ann E. Misback,
Secretary of the Board.
[FR Doc. 2023–16896 Filed 8–31–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6210–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–1720; Project
Identifier MCAI–2023–00003–R]
RIN 2120–AA64
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
Airbus Helicopters Model SA–365C1,
SA–365C2, and SA–365N helicopters.
This proposed AD was prompted by
reports of damaged control rod dual
bearings (dual bearings) that are
installed on the tail rotor gearbox (TGB).
This proposed AD would require
repetitively inspecting the TGB
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SUMMARY:
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0
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25
10
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75
50
25
10
100
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You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
regulations.gov. Follow the instructions
for submitting comments.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
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Remaining
maturity of 180
to 364 days
(percent)
10
magnetic plug for particles, analyzing
any particles collected, taking corrective
actions if necessary, and reporting
certain information. Finally, this
proposed AD would allow an affected
dual bearing to be installed on a
helicopter if certain actions are
accomplished, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is proposed for
incorporation by reference. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by October 16,
2023.
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Remaining
maturity of 91
to 179 days
(percent)
25
ADDRESSES:
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Remaining
maturity of 31
to 90 days
(percent)
Sfmt 4702
No. FAA–2023–1720; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this NPRM, the EASA AD, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For EASA material that is proposed
for incorporation by reference in this
NPRM, 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. The EASA material
is also available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2023–1720.
Other Related Service Information:
For Airbus Helicopters service
information identified in this NPRM,
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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 169 / Friday, September 1, 2023 / Proposed Rules
be placed in the public docket for this
rulemaking.
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 Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781)
238–7244; email 9-AVS-AIR-BACOCOS@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send
your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2023–1720; Project Identifier
MCAI–2023–00003–R’’ at the beginning
of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of
the proposal, explain the reason for any
recommended change, and include
supporting data. The FAA will consider
all comments received by the closing
date and may amend this proposal
because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business
Information (CBI) as described in the
following paragraph, and other
information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments
received, without change, to
regulations.gov, including any personal
information you provide. The agency
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact received
about this NPRM.
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Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial
information that is both customarily and
actually treated as private by its owner.
Under the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt
from public disclosure. If your
comments responsive to this NPRM
contain commercial or financial
information that is customarily treated
as private, that you actually treat as
private, and that is relevant or
responsive to this NPRM, it is important
that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each
page of your submission containing CBI
as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such
marked submissions as confidential
under the FOIA, and they will not be
placed in the public docket of this
NPRM. Submissions containing CBI
should be sent to Kevin Kung, Aviation
Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart
Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone (781) 238–7244; email
9-AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@faa.gov. Any
commentary that the FAA receives that
is not specifically designated as CBI will
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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
2023–0001, dated January 4, 2023
(EASA AD 2023–0001), to correct an
unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters
Model SA 365 C1, SA 365 C2, SA 365
C3, and SA 365 N helicopters, all
manufacturer serial numbers.
This proposed AD was prompted by
reports of damaged dual bearings that
are installed on the TGB. The FAA is
proposing this AD to inspect for
particles in the TGB magnetic plug. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in loss of yaw control and
subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
You may examine EASA AD 2023–
0001 in the AD docket at regulations.gov
under Docket No. FAA–2023–1720.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023–0001 requires
continuing close monitoring for certain
helicopters and analyzing any particles
collected during required inspections,
repetitively inspecting the magnetic
plug of the TGB for particles, and
corrective actions. Corrective actions
include replacing or repairing an
affected TGB; sending certain
information and affected parts to the
manufacturer; accomplishing a
metallurgical analysis; and replacing an
affected dual bearing and other affected
parts.
Additionally, EASA AD 2023–0001
requires for certain helicopters with an
affected dual bearing installed,
performing a one-time inspection of the
dual bearing.
EASA AD 2023–0001 allows a dual
bearing part number (P/N) 360A33–
4052–00 installed on a control rod of a
TGB P/N 365A33–4000–00, 365A33–
4000–01, 365A33–4000–02, or 365A33–
5000–00 to be installed on an aircraft, if
certain requirements are met.
This material is reasonably available
because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course
of business or by the means identified
in the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No.
AS365–05.00.83 and Airbus Helicopters
ASB No. SA365–05.35, both Revision 0,
and both dated February 7, 2022. This
service information specifies procedures
to inspect the magnetic plug of the TGB
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60403
for particles; analyze and define the
particles collected; replace an affected
TGB and an affected dual bearing;
perform a metallurgical analysis; and
report certain information to the
manufacturer.
The FAA also reviewed Airbus
Helicopters ASB No. AS365–65.00.20
Revision 0, dated November 23, 2022.
This service information specifies
procedures for a one-time inspection of
a certain dual bearing and replacement
of the dual bearing if any particles are
found.
Additionally, the FAA reviewed
Airbus Standard Practices Manual, 20–
08–01–601, Periodical monitoring of
lubricating oil checking elements, dated
July 7, 2020. This service information
specifies procedures for analyzing
collected particles.
FAA’s Determination
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 about the unsafe condition
described in its AD. The FAA is
proposing this AD after determining that
the unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop
on other helicopters of the same type
design.
Proposed AD Requirements in This
NPRM
This proposed AD would require
accomplishing the actions specified in
EASA AD 2023–0001, described
previously, as incorporated by
reference, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD and
discussed under ‘‘Differences Between
this Proposed AD and the EASA AD.’’
Explanation of Required Compliance
Information
In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to
improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to
use some civil aviation authority (CAA)
ADs as the primary source of
information for compliance with
requirements for corresponding FAA
ADs. The FAA has been coordinating
this process with manufacturers and
CAAs. As a result, the FAA proposes to
incorporate EASA AD 2023–0001 by
reference in the FAA final rule. This
proposed AD would, therefore, require
compliance with EASA AD 2023–0001
AD in its entirety through that
incorporation, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD.
Using common terms that are the same
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as the heading of a particular section in
EASA AD 2023–0001 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
Time(s)’’ in EASA AD 2023–0001.
Service information referenced in EASA
AD 2023–0001 for compliance will be
available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2023–1720 after the
FAA final rule is published.
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Differences Between This Proposed AD
and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2023–0001 applies to
Airbus Helicopters Model SA 365 C3
helicopters, whereas this proposed AD
would not because that model is not
FAA type-certificated.
This proposed AD would clarify that
Model SA–365N helicopters with an
affected dual bearing installed that has
an unknown total number of hours timein-service accumulated on the dual
bearing would be subject to certain
requirements in this proposed AD,
whereas EASA AD 2023–0001 is unclear
about those parts with an accumulated
usage that cannot be determined.
EASA AD 2023–0001 does not clarify
what is considered an anomaly
regarding the chip detector and conical
housing chip detector; whereas, for this
proposed AD, an anomaly may be
indicated by the magnetic component of
the TGB chip detector or the conical
housing chip detector not being
magnetized. EASA AD 2023–0001 also
does not clarify what is considered good
condition regarding the chip detector or
conical housing chip detector; whereas,
for this proposed AD, good condition for
the chip detector is indicated when
there are no signs of wear on the locking
systems (including wear on the bayonets
and slotted tubes) and good condition
for the conical housing chip detector is
when the conical housing chip detector
is magnetized.
Where EASA AD 2023–0001 describes
a doubt concerning the physical
characteristics of any collected particles,
this AD requires performing a
metallurgical analysis. If there is any
doubt remaining after performing the
metallurgical analysis, EASA AD 2023–
0001 requires contacting Airbus,
whereas this proposed AD would
require removing an affected TGB from
service and replacing it with an
airworthy part, or repairing the TGB in
accordance with a method approved by
the FAA, EASA, or Airbus Helicopters’
Design Organizational Approval.
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If any particles (including abrasiontype particles) are found on the
magnetic plug during any inspection
that are outside the limits, EASA AD
2023–0001 requires replacing each
affected dual bearing with a serviceable
dual bearing, and replacing the TGB,
whereas this proposed AD would
require removing each affected dual
bearing and replacing with a serviceable
dual bearing, or removing the TGB from
service and replacing it with an
airworthy TGB, or repairing the TGB in
accordance with a method approved by
the FAA, EASA, or Airbus Helicopters’
Design Organization Approval.
Service information referenced in
EASA AD 20223–0001 permits a pilot to
perform a magnetic plug check, whereas
this proposed AD would not.
Service information referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies sending
compliance forms, certain parts, and
particles to the manufacturer, whereas
this proposed AD would require
reporting certain information but would
not require sending any parts or
particles to the manufacturer.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this proposed AD
would be 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, if
adopted as proposed, would affect 1
helicopter 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 proposed AD.
Inspecting the magnetic plug of the
TGB for particles would take about 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85
per inspection and up to $85 for the
U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle.
Inspecting a dual bearing would take
about 16 work-hours for an estimated
cost of $1,360 per inspection and up to
$1,360 for the U.S. fleet. If required,
replacing a dual bearing would take
about 1 additional work-hour following
the inspection and parts would cost
about $6,678 for an estimated cost of
$6,763 per dual bearing replacement.
If required, analyzing collected
particles would take about 1 work-hour
for an estimated cost of $85 per
helicopter. If required, a metallurgical
analysis would take about 1 work-hour
for an estimated cost of $85 per
instance.
If required, replacing an O-ring would
take about 1 work-hour and parts would
cost about $100 for an estimated cost of
$185 per O-ring.
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Sfmt 4702
If required, replacing a TGB would
take about 8 work-hours and parts
would cost about $155,302 for an
estimated cost of $155,982 per
replacement.
The FAA has received no definitive
data for the repair cost of a TGB.
If required, reporting information to
the manufacturer would take about 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85
per instance.
Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to
respond to, nor shall a person be subject
to a penalty for failure to comply with
a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork
Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid
OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information
collection is 2120–0056. Public
reporting for this collection of
information is estimated to take
approximately 1 hour per response,
including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data
sources, gathering and maintaining the
data needed, and completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send
comments regarding this burden
estimate or any other aspect of this
collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing this burden, to:
Information Collection Clearance
Officer, Federal Aviation
Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
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Regulatory Findings
The FAA determined that this
proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the
States, on the relationship between the
national Government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Would not affect intrastate
aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Would not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
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:
■
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2023–
1720; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–
00003–R.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this
airworthiness directive (AD) by October 16,
2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
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(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model SA–365C1, SA–365C2, and SA–365N
helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6520, Tail rotor gearbox.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of
damaged control rod dual bearings (dual
bearings) installed on the tail rotor gearbox
(TGB). The FAA is issuing this AD to inspect
for particles in the TGB magnetic plug. The
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unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in loss of yaw control and subsequent
loss of control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023–0001, dated
January 4, 2023 (EASA AD 2023–0001).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023–0001
(1) Where EASA AD 2023–0001 requires
compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(2) Where EASA AD 2023–0001 refers to
the effective dates specified in paragraphs
(h)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD, this AD requires
using the effective date of this AD.
(i) March 21, 2022 (the effective date of
EASA AD 2022–0038, dated March 7, 2022).
(ii) The effective date of EASA AD 2023–
0001.
(3) Where EASA AD 2023–0001 defines
Groups, for Group 2, replace the text ‘‘SA 365
N helicopters with an affected part installed
that has accumulated 500 flight hours (FH) or
more since first installation on a helicopter,’’
with ‘‘SA–365N helicopters with an affected
part installed that has accumulated 500 or
more total hours time-in-service on the
affected part or the total hours time-inservice on the affected part cannot be
determined.’’
(4) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2023–0001 permits
a pilot to perform a check of the magnetic
plug, this AD requires that action be
performed by a person authorized under 14
CFR 43.3.
(5) Where Note 1 of EASA AD 2023–0001
specifies, ‘‘Helicopters that were under close
monitoring on March 21 2022 (the effective
date of EASA AD 2022–0038) must continue
the close monitoring procedure up to the first
inspection accomplished in accordance with
the instructions of ASB 1;’’ for this AD,
replace that text with, ‘‘Helicopters that are
under close monitoring as of the effective
date of this AD, must continue close
monitoring until the first instance of the
requirements in paragraph (1) of EASA AD
2023–0001 are completed.’’
(6) Where EASA AD 2023–0001 requires
replacing the TGB and the service
information referenced in EASA AD 2023–
0001 specifies replacing the TGB, for this AD,
before further flight, remove the TGB from
service and replace it with an airworthy part,
or repair the TGB in accordance with a
method approved by the Manager, Europe
Middle East & Africa Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA; EASA; or Airbus
Helicopters’ Design Organization Approval
(DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(7) Where paragraphs (5) and (6) of EASA
AD 2023–0001 require replacing an affected
part, as defined in EASA AD 2023–0001,
with a serviceable part, as defined in EASA
AD 2023–0001; for this AD, remove the
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affected part, as defined in EASA AD 2023–
0001, from service and replace it with a
serviceable part, as defined in EASA AD
2023–0001.
(8) Where paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2023–
0001 does not specify a compliance time; for
this AD, the compliance time for those
actions is before further flight.
(9) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies to do the
actions identified in paragraphs (h)(9)(i) and
(ii) of this AD, this AD does not include those
requirements.
(i) Comply with paragraph 2.D., except this
AD requires reporting information, including
the information in Appendix 4. of the service
information, in accordance with paragraph
(h)(18) of this AD.
(ii) Send parts and particles to Airbus
Helicopters.
(10) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies replacing the
chip detector or conical housing chip
detector if there is an anomaly; for this AD,
an anomaly may be indicated by the
magnetic component of the TGB chip
detector or the conical housing chip detector
not being magnetized. If there is an anomaly,
this AD requires before further flight,
removing from service the TGB chip detector
or the conical housing chip detector, as
applicable to your model helicopter.
(11) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies making sure
that the chip detector or conical housing chip
detector is in good condition; for this AD,
good condition for the chip detector is
indicated when there are no signs of wear on
the locking systems (including wear on the
bayonets and slotted tubes). If there are any
signs of wear on the locking systems, this AD
requires, before further flight, removing the
TGB chip detector from service. Good
condition for the conical housing chip
detector is when the conical housing chip
detector is magnetized. If the conical housing
chip detector is not being magnetized, this
AD requires, before further flight, removing
the conical housing chip detector from
service.
(12) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies replacing the
O-rings if necessary; this AD requires, before
further flight, removing any affected O-ring
from service and replacing it with an
airworthy O-ring.
(13) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies removing an
affected TGB, returning it to an approved
workshop, including sending all the particles
found in the affected part; this AD requires,
before further flight, removing an affected
TGB from service and replacing it with an
airworthy part, or repairing the TGB in
accordance with a method approved by the
Manager, Europe Middle East & Africa
Section, International Validation Branch,
FAA; EASA; or Airbus Helicopters’ DOA. If
approved by the DOA, the approval must
include the DOA-authorized signature. You
are not required to send the particles found
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in the TGB to Airbus Helicopters or send an
affected TGB to an approved workshop.
(14) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies to use tooling,
this AD allows the use of equivalent tooling.
(15) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies discarding
certain parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service.
(16) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies performing a
metallurgical analysis of particles if there is
a doubt concerning the type, size, or
classification of any collected particle, this
AD requires, before further flight, performing
a metallurgical analysis if the type, size, or
classification of any collected particle cannot
be determined.
(17) Where the service information
(including any work card) referenced in
EASA AD 2023–0001 specifies if there is any
doubt remaining (pertaining to particle
classification) after performing a
metallurgical analysis, contact Airbus, this
AD requires, before further flight, removing
an affected TGB from service and replacing
it with an airworthy part, or repairing the
TGB in accordance with a method approved
by the Manager, Europe Middle East & Africa
Section, International Validation Branch,
FAA; EASA; or Airbus Helicopters’ DOA. If
approved by the DOA, the approval must
include the DOA-authorized signature.
(18) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2023–0001 requires
reporting inspection results, including
Appendix 4.A., to Airbus Helicopters, if any
M50 particles are found, this AD requires
reporting those inspection results along with
a detailed description of any information and
findings, and if possible, provide photos, at
the applicable time in paragraph (h)(18)(i) or
(ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 10 days after accomplishing the
metallurgical analysis.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 10 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(19) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2023–0001.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1
(i) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199,
provided no passengers are onboard.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (k) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:27 Aug 31, 2023
Jkt 259001
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Kevin Kung, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781)
238–7244; email 9-AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@
faa.gov.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2023–0001, dated January 4,
2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023–0001, 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.
(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 August 23, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–18612 Filed 8–31–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–1812; Project
Identifier MCAI–2023–00726–A]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Diamond
Aircraft Industries Inc. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
PO 00000
Frm 00022
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc. Model
DA 62 airplanes. This proposed AD was
prompted by reports of baggage nets
installed with defective buckles, which
may result in failure of the baggage net
to restrain the baggage or cargo, which
could lead to injury to the occupants in
the case of an emergency landing. This
proposed AD would require identifying
and replacing the affected part. The
FAA is proposing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments
on this NPRM by October 16, 2023.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
regulations.gov. Follow the instructions
for submitting comments.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–1812; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this NPRM, the mandatory
continuing airworthiness information
(MCAI), any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For service information identified
in this NPRM, contact Diamond Aircraft
Industries Inc., Att: Thit Tun, 1560
Crumlin Road, London, N5V 1S2,
Canada; phone: (519) 457–4000; email:
t.tun@diamondaircraft.com; website:
diamondaircraft.com.
• You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety
Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, MO
64106. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Chirayu Gupta, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue,
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone:
(516) 228–7300; email:
chirayu.a.gupta@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\01SEP1.SGM
01SEP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 169 (Friday, September 1, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 60402-60406]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-18612]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-1720; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00003-R]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for Airbus Helicopters Model SA-365C1, SA-365C2, and SA-365N
helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of damaged
control rod dual bearings (dual bearings) that are installed on the
tail rotor gearbox (TGB). This proposed AD would require repetitively
inspecting the TGB magnetic plug for particles, analyzing any particles
collected, taking corrective actions if necessary, and reporting
certain information. Finally, this proposed AD would allow an affected
dual bearing to be installed on a helicopter if certain actions are
accomplished, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 16,
2023.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2023-1720; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this NPRM, the EASA AD, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed
above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For EASA material that is proposed for incorporation by
reference in this NPRM, 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. The EASA material is also
available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1720.
Other Related Service Information: For Airbus Helicopters service
information identified in this NPRM, 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.
[[Page 60403]]
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 Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone
(781) 238-7244; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2023-1720; Project Identifier
MCAI-2023-00003-R'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposal because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this NPRM.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Kevin
Kung, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781) 238-7244; 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
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 2023-0001, dated January 4, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0001), to
correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model SA 365 C1, SA
365 C2, SA 365 C3, and SA 365 N helicopters, all manufacturer serial
numbers.
This proposed AD was prompted by reports of damaged dual bearings
that are installed on the TGB. The FAA is proposing this AD to inspect
for particles in the TGB magnetic plug. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of
control of the helicopter.
You may examine EASA AD 2023-0001 in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1720.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023-0001 requires continuing close monitoring for certain
helicopters and analyzing any particles collected during required
inspections, repetitively inspecting the magnetic plug of the TGB for
particles, and corrective actions. Corrective actions include replacing
or repairing an affected TGB; sending certain information and affected
parts to the manufacturer; accomplishing a metallurgical analysis; and
replacing an affected dual bearing and other affected parts.
Additionally, EASA AD 2023-0001 requires for certain helicopters
with an affected dual bearing installed, performing a one-time
inspection of the dual bearing.
EASA AD 2023-0001 allows a dual bearing part number (P/N) 360A33-
4052-00 installed on a control rod of a TGB P/N 365A33-4000-00, 365A33-
4000-01, 365A33-4000-02, or 365A33-5000-00 to be installed on an
aircraft, if certain requirements are met.
This material is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. AS365-05.00.83 and Airbus Helicopters ASB No. SA365-05.35, both
Revision 0, and both dated February 7, 2022. This service information
specifies procedures to inspect the magnetic plug of the TGB for
particles; analyze and define the particles collected; replace an
affected TGB and an affected dual bearing; perform a metallurgical
analysis; and report certain information to the manufacturer.
The FAA also reviewed Airbus Helicopters ASB No. AS365-65.00.20
Revision 0, dated November 23, 2022. This service information specifies
procedures for a one-time inspection of a certain dual bearing and
replacement of the dual bearing if any particles are found.
Additionally, the FAA reviewed Airbus Standard Practices Manual,
20-08-01-601, Periodical monitoring of lubricating oil checking
elements, dated July 7, 2020. This service information specifies
procedures for analyzing collected particles.
FAA's Determination
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 about the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is proposing this AD
after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is
likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type
design.
Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM
This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified
in EASA AD 2023-0001, described previously, as incorporated by
reference, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD and discussed under ``Differences
Between this Proposed AD and the EASA AD.''
Explanation of Required Compliance Information
In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been
coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, the
FAA proposes to incorporate EASA AD 2023-0001 by reference in the FAA
final rule. This proposed AD would, therefore, require compliance with
EASA AD 2023-0001 AD in its entirety through that incorporation, except
for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of
this proposed AD. Using common terms that are the same
[[Page 60404]]
as the heading of a particular section in EASA AD 2023-0001 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 Time(s)'' in
EASA AD 2023-0001. Service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001
for compliance will be available at regulations.gov under Docket No.
FAA-2023-1720 after the FAA final rule is published.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2023-0001 applies to Airbus Helicopters Model SA 365 C3
helicopters, whereas this proposed AD would not because that model is
not FAA type-certificated.
This proposed AD would clarify that Model SA-365N helicopters with
an affected dual bearing installed that has an unknown total number of
hours time-in-service accumulated on the dual bearing would be subject
to certain requirements in this proposed AD, whereas EASA AD 2023-0001
is unclear about those parts with an accumulated usage that cannot be
determined.
EASA AD 2023-0001 does not clarify what is considered an anomaly
regarding the chip detector and conical housing chip detector; whereas,
for this proposed AD, an anomaly may be indicated by the magnetic
component of the TGB chip detector or the conical housing chip detector
not being magnetized. EASA AD 2023-0001 also does not clarify what is
considered good condition regarding the chip detector or conical
housing chip detector; whereas, for this proposed AD, good condition
for the chip detector is indicated when there are no signs of wear on
the locking systems (including wear on the bayonets and slotted tubes)
and good condition for the conical housing chip detector is when the
conical housing chip detector is magnetized.
Where EASA AD 2023-0001 describes a doubt concerning the physical
characteristics of any collected particles, this AD requires performing
a metallurgical analysis. If there is any doubt remaining after
performing the metallurgical analysis, EASA AD 2023-0001 requires
contacting Airbus, whereas this proposed AD would require removing an
affected TGB from service and replacing it with an airworthy part, or
repairing the TGB in accordance with a method approved by the FAA,
EASA, or Airbus Helicopters' Design Organizational Approval.
If any particles (including abrasion-type particles) are found on
the magnetic plug during any inspection that are outside the limits,
EASA AD 2023-0001 requires replacing each affected dual bearing with a
serviceable dual bearing, and replacing the TGB, whereas this proposed
AD would require removing each affected dual bearing and replacing with
a serviceable dual bearing, or removing the TGB from service and
replacing it with an airworthy TGB, or repairing the TGB in accordance
with a method approved by the FAA, EASA, or Airbus Helicopters' Design
Organization Approval.
Service information referenced in EASA AD 20223-0001 permits a
pilot to perform a magnetic plug check, whereas this proposed AD would
not.
Service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies
sending compliance forms, certain parts, and particles to the
manufacturer, whereas this proposed AD would require reporting certain
information but would not require sending any parts or particles to the
manufacturer.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this proposed AD would be 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, if adopted as proposed, would
affect 1 helicopter 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 proposed AD.
Inspecting the magnetic plug of the TGB for particles would take
about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per inspection and up to
$85 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle.
Inspecting a dual bearing would take about 16 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $1,360 per inspection and up to $1,360 for the U.S.
fleet. If required, replacing a dual bearing would take about 1
additional work-hour following the inspection and parts would cost
about $6,678 for an estimated cost of $6,763 per dual bearing
replacement.
If required, analyzing collected particles would take about 1 work-
hour for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter. If required, a
metallurgical analysis would take about 1 work-hour for an estimated
cost of $85 per instance.
If required, replacing an O-ring would take about 1 work-hour and
parts would cost about $100 for an estimated cost of $185 per O-ring.
If required, replacing a TGB would take about 8 work-hours and
parts would cost about $155,302 for an estimated cost of $155,982 per
replacement.
The FAA has received no definitive data for the repair cost of a
TGB.
If required, reporting information to the manufacturer would take
about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per instance.
Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public
reporting for this collection of information is estimated to take
approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the
collection of information. All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send comments regarding this burden estimate
or any other aspect of this collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing this burden, to: Information Collection
Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
[[Page 60405]]
Regulatory Findings
The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed
regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2023-1720; Project Identifier
MCAI-2023-00003-R.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive
(AD) by October 16, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model SA-365C1, SA-365C2,
and SA-365N helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6520, Tail rotor
gearbox.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of damaged control rod dual
bearings (dual bearings) installed on the tail rotor gearbox (TGB).
The FAA is issuing this AD to inspect for particles in the TGB
magnetic plug. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result
in loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2023-0001, dated January 4, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0001).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023-0001
(1) Where EASA AD 2023-0001 requires compliance in terms of
flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(2) Where EASA AD 2023-0001 refers to the effective dates
specified in paragraphs (h)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD, this AD
requires using the effective date of this AD.
(i) March 21, 2022 (the effective date of EASA AD 2022-0038,
dated March 7, 2022).
(ii) The effective date of EASA AD 2023-0001.
(3) Where EASA AD 2023-0001 defines Groups, for Group 2, replace
the text ``SA 365 N helicopters with an affected part installed that
has accumulated 500 flight hours (FH) or more since first
installation on a helicopter,'' with ``SA-365N helicopters with an
affected part installed that has accumulated 500 or more total hours
time-in-service on the affected part or the total hours time-in-
service on the affected part cannot be determined.''
(4) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-
0001 permits a pilot to perform a check of the magnetic plug, this
AD requires that action be performed by a person authorized under 14
CFR 43.3.
(5) Where Note 1 of EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies, ``Helicopters
that were under close monitoring on March 21 2022 (the effective
date of EASA AD 2022-0038) must continue the close monitoring
procedure up to the first inspection accomplished in accordance with
the instructions of ASB 1;'' for this AD, replace that text with,
``Helicopters that are under close monitoring as of the effective
date of this AD, must continue close monitoring until the first
instance of the requirements in paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2023-0001
are completed.''
(6) Where EASA AD 2023-0001 requires replacing the TGB and the
service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies
replacing the TGB, for this AD, before further flight, remove the
TGB from service and replace it with an airworthy part, or repair
the TGB in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Europe
Middle East & Africa Section, International Validation Branch, FAA;
EASA; or Airbus Helicopters' Design Organization Approval (DOA). If
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized
signature.
(7) Where paragraphs (5) and (6) of EASA AD 2023-0001 require
replacing an affected part, as defined in EASA AD 2023-0001, with a
serviceable part, as defined in EASA AD 2023-0001; for this AD,
remove the affected part, as defined in EASA AD 2023-0001, from
service and replace it with a serviceable part, as defined in EASA
AD 2023-0001.
(8) Where paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2023-0001 does not specify a
compliance time; for this AD, the compliance time for those actions
is before further flight.
(9) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies to do the actions
identified in paragraphs (h)(9)(i) and (ii) of this AD, this AD does
not include those requirements.
(i) Comply with paragraph 2.D., except this AD requires
reporting information, including the information in Appendix 4. of
the service information, in accordance with paragraph (h)(18) of
this AD.
(ii) Send parts and particles to Airbus Helicopters.
(10) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies replacing the chip
detector or conical housing chip detector if there is an anomaly;
for this AD, an anomaly may be indicated by the magnetic component
of the TGB chip detector or the conical housing chip detector not
being magnetized. If there is an anomaly, this AD requires before
further flight, removing from service the TGB chip detector or the
conical housing chip detector, as applicable to your model
helicopter.
(11) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies making sure that the chip
detector or conical housing chip detector is in good condition; for
this AD, good condition for the chip detector is indicated when
there are no signs of wear on the locking systems (including wear on
the bayonets and slotted tubes). If there are any signs of wear on
the locking systems, this AD requires, before further flight,
removing the TGB chip detector from service. Good condition for the
conical housing chip detector is when the conical housing chip
detector is magnetized. If the conical housing chip detector is not
being magnetized, this AD requires, before further flight, removing
the conical housing chip detector from service.
(12) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies replacing the O-rings if
necessary; this AD requires, before further flight, removing any
affected O-ring from service and replacing it with an airworthy O-
ring.
(13) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies removing an affected TGB,
returning it to an approved workshop, including sending all the
particles found in the affected part; this AD requires, before
further flight, removing an affected TGB from service and replacing
it with an airworthy part, or repairing the TGB in accordance with a
method approved by the Manager, Europe Middle East & Africa Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA; EASA; or Airbus Helicopters'
DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-
authorized signature. You are not required to send the particles
found
[[Page 60406]]
in the TGB to Airbus Helicopters or send an affected TGB to an
approved workshop.
(14) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies to use tooling, this AD
allows the use of equivalent tooling.
(15) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies discarding certain parts,
this AD requires removing those parts from service.
(16) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies performing a metallurgical
analysis of particles if there is a doubt concerning the type, size,
or classification of any collected particle, this AD requires,
before further flight, performing a metallurgical analysis if the
type, size, or classification of any collected particle cannot be
determined.
(17) Where the service information (including any work card)
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0001 specifies if there is any doubt
remaining (pertaining to particle classification) after performing a
metallurgical analysis, contact Airbus, this AD requires, before
further flight, removing an affected TGB from service and replacing
it with an airworthy part, or repairing the TGB in accordance with a
method approved by the Manager, Europe Middle East & Africa Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA; EASA; or Airbus Helicopters'
DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-
authorized signature.
(18) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-
0001 requires reporting inspection results, including Appendix 4.A.,
to Airbus Helicopters, if any M50 particles are found, this AD
requires reporting those inspection results along with a detailed
description of any information and findings, and if possible,
provide photos, at the applicable time in paragraph (h)(18)(i) or
(ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 10 days after accomplishing the
metallurgical analysis.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 10 days after the effective date
of this AD.
(19) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2023-0001.
(i) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR
21.197 and 21.199, provided no passengers are onboard.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Kung, Aviation
Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone (781) 238-7244; email [email protected].
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023-0001,
dated January 4, 2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023-0001, 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.
(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 August 23, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-18612 Filed 8-31-23; 8:45 am]
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