Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 90088-90091 [2023-28773]
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90088
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 249 / Friday, December 29, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
to the address identified in paragraph
(j)(2) of this AD or email to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. If mailing
information, also submit information by
email. Before using any approved
AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a
principal inspector, the manager of the
local Flight Standards District Office/
certificate holding district office.
(j) Additional Information
(1) Refer to EASA AD 2023–0007,
dated January 13, 2023, for related
information. This EASA AD may be
found in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2023–1819.
(2) For more information about this
AD, contact Sungmo Cho, Aviation
Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart
Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; phone: (781) 238–7241; email:
sungmo.d.cho@faa.gov.
(3) Service information identified in
this AD that is not incorporated by
reference is available at the addresses
specified in paragraphs (k)(3) and (4) of
this AD.
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(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 the
AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Piaggio Aerospace Service Bulletin
80–0489, Revision 2, dated November
30, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified
in this AD, contact Piaggio Aviation
S.p.A., P180 Customer Support, via
Pionieri e Aviatori d’Italia, snc—16154
Genoa, Italy; phone: +39 331 679 74 93;
email: technicalsupport@
piaggioaerospace.it.
(4) 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.
(5) You may view this material at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, visit
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locationsoremailfr.inspection@
nara.gov.
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Issued on December 8, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–28769 Filed 12–28–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–1894; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–00334–R; Amendment
39–22635; AD 2023–25–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E, A109S,
AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
multiple reports of excessive axial play
on the ball bearing of the lower half of
the main rotor (MR) rotating scissor
assembly. This AD requires one-time
scissor coupling and axial play
inspections and repetitive quantitative
axial play inspections and, depending
on the results, additional inspections
and replacing certain parts. This AD
also requires reporting information and
prohibits installing certain parts unless
certain inspections have been
accomplished. These requirements are
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 February 2,
2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of February 2, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–1894; 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 mandatory
continuing airworthiness information,
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
SUMMARY:
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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 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. It is also
available in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2023–1894.
Other Related Service Information:
For Leonardo Helicopters service
information identified in this final rule,
contact Leonardo S.p.A Helicopters,
Emanuele Bufano, Head of
Airworthiness, Viale G. Agusta 520,
21017 C. Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy;
telephone (+39) 0331–225074; fax (+39)
0031–229046; or at
customerportal.leonardocompany.com/
en-US. You may also view this service
information at the FAA contact
information under Material
Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jared Hyman, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781)
238–7799; email 9-AVS-AIR-BACOCOS@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Leonardo S.p.a. Model
A109E, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and
AW119 MKII helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
October 3, 2023 (88 FR 67999). The
NPRM was prompted by EASA AD
2022–0037, dated March 7, 2022;
corrected March 15, 2022 (EASA AD
2022–0037), issued by EASA, which is
the Technical Agent for the Member
States of the European Union. EASA AD
2022–0037 states that there have been
multiple reports of excessive axial play
on the ball bearing of the lower half of
the MR rotating scissor assembly. In
some cases, this resulted in
dislodgement of the ball bearing from its
seat.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require one-time MR rotating scissor
coupling and axial play inspections and
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repetitive quantitative axial play
inspections and, depending on the
results, additional inspections and
replacing certain parts. The NPRM also
proposed to require reporting
information and prohibit installing
certain parts unless certain inspections
have been accomplished. The FAA is
issuing this AD to detect and address
any excessive axial play of the MR
rotating scissor assembly. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result
in failure of the MR rotating scissor
assembly, loss of control of the
helicopter, and subsequent damage to
the helicopter and injury to occupants.
See EASA AD 2022–0037 for additional
background information.
You may examine EASA AD 2022–
0037 in the AD docket at regulations.gov
under Docket No. FAA–2023–1894.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
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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 its AD 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.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2022–
0037 which requires, for certain
applicable model helicopters,
accomplishing one-time MR rotating
scissor coupling and axial play checks.
Depending on the results, EASA AD
2022–0037 requires repetitively
measuring the axial play or replacing
certain parts. For all applicable model
helicopters, EASA AD 2022–0037
requires accomplishing repetitive
qualitative and quantitative axial play
checks and, depending on the results,
repetitively measuring the axial play or
replacing certain parts. Furthermore,
EASA AD 2022–0037 requires reporting
certain information to the manufacturer
and prohibits installing certain parts on
any helicopter unless the part has
passed required inspections.
This material is reasonably available
because the interested parties have
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access to it through their normal course
of business or by the means identified
in ADDRESSES.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Leonardo
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. 109EP–177, Leonardo Helicopters
ASB No. 109S–105, Leonardo
Helicopters ASB No. 109SP–149, and
Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 119–111,
each Revision A and dated March 3,
2022. This service information specifies
procedures for inspecting the MR
rotating scissor coupling and axial play,
measuring the axial play, inspecting the
qualitative axial play, inspecting the
quantitative axial play, and replacing
components of the MR rotating scissor
assembly (scissor bracket flange
assembly, rotary scissor sleeve, lower
scissor lever assembly, and upper
scissor lever assembly) and bushings.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
EASA AD 2022–0037 applies to
Model A109LUH helicopters, whereas
this AD does not because that model is
not FAA-type certificated. EASA AD
2022–0037 refers to several actions as a
‘‘check,’’ whereas this AD refers to those
actions as an ‘‘inspection’’ instead
because those actions must be
accomplished by persons authorized
under 14 CFR 43.3. EASA AD 2022–
0037 requires discarding certain parts,
whereas this AD requires removing
those parts from service instead.
Service information referenced in
EASA AD 2022–0037 specifies to
contact Leonardo Helicopters for
instructions as a result of certain MR
rotating scissor maximum torque force
check (inspection) results, whereas this
AD requires accomplishing corrective
action in accordance with a method
approved by the FAA, EASA, or
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters’ EASA
Design Organization Approval. EASA
AD 2022–0037 requires interpreting the
MR rotating scissor coupling and axial
play inspection results (PASSED or
FAILED) by using its required service
information, whereas this AD requires
interpreting those results by using tables
in the body of this AD and recorded
results of certain inspections.
Furthermore, if the scissor coupling
inspection result is an ‘‘UNCERTAIN
RESULT,’’ the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0037
specifies contacting Leonardo
Helicopters, whereas this AD considers
an ‘‘UNCERTAIN RESULT’’ as
‘‘FAILED.’’
EASA AD 2022–0037 requires
accomplishing repetitive qualitative
axial play checks, whereas this AD does
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90089
not. EASA AD 2022–0037 requires
quantitative axial play checks within
intervals not to exceed 200 flight hours,
whereas this AD requires quantitative
axial play inspections within intervals
not to exceed 55 hours time-in-service.
The service information referenced in
EASA AD 2022–0037 cautions that only
approved personnel are permitted to
perform the bushing replacement,
whereas this AD does not include that
caution.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 204 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.
The one-time MR rotating scissor
coupling and axial play inspections will
take approximately 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and up to $34,680 for the U.S. fleet.
A quantitative axial play inspection
will take approximately 1 work-hour for
an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter
and $17,340 for the U.S. fleet per
inspection cycle.
Measuring the axial play will take
approximately 1 work-hour for an
estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and
$17,340 for the U.S. fleet per inspection
cycle.
Certain corrective action that may be
needed as a result of an inspection can
vary significantly from helicopter to
helicopter. The FAA has no data to
determine the costs to accomplish the
corrective action or the number of
helicopters that may require corrective
action.
Replacing the scissor bracket flange
assembly will take approximately 4
work-hours and parts will cost
approximately $8,099–11,574
(depending on part number) for an
estimated cost of $8,439–11,914 per
replacement. Alternatively, replacing its
bushings will take approximately 2
work-hours and parts will cost
approximately $225 for an estimated
cost of $395 per replacement.
Replacing each rotary scissor sleeve
will take approximately 2 work-hours
and parts will cost approximately $565
for an estimated cost of $735 per
replacement.
Replacing the lower scissor lever
assembly (including the washer and
retaining bolt) will take 2 work-hours
and parts will cost approximately
$3,308–3,385 (depending on part
number) for an estimated cost of
$3,478–3,555 per replacement.
Alternatively, replacing its bushings
will take approximately 2 work-hours
and parts will cost approximately $225
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for an estimated cost of $395 per
replacement.
Replacing the upper scissor lever
assembly will take approximately 2
work-hours and parts will cost
approximately $2,219–3,015 (depending
on part number) for an estimated cost of
$2,389–3,185 per replacement.
Alternatively, replacing its bushings
will take approximately 2 work-hours
and parts will cost approximately $225
for an estimated cost of $395 per
replacement.
Reporting the inspection results to the
manufacturer will take approximately 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85
per report.
The FAA has included all known
costs in its cost estimate. According to
the manufacturer, however, some of the
costs of this AD may be covered under
warranty, thereby reducing the cost
impact on affected operators.
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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
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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
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:
■
2023–25–08 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–22635; Docket No. FAA–2023–1894;
Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00334–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective February 2, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a.
Model A109E, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and
AW119 MKII helicopters, certificated in any
category.
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(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6200, Main Rotor System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by multiple reports
of excessive axial play on the ball bearing of
the lower half of the main rotor rotating
scissor assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD
to detect and address any excessive axial
play of the main rotor rotating scissor
assembly. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in failure of the main
rotor rotating scissor assembly, loss of control
of the helicopter, and subsequent damage to
the helicopter and injury to occupants.
(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 AD 2022–0037, dated March
7, 2022; corrected March 15, 2022 (EASA AD
2022–0037).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022–0037
(1) Where EASA AD 2022–0037 defines
Affected part ‘‘as identified in the ASB;’’ for
this AD, replace that text with ‘‘as identified
in Table 2 of Leonardo Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 109EP–177,
Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 109S–105,
Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 109SP–149, or
Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 119–111, each
Revision A and dated March 3, 2022, and as
applicable to your model helicopter.’’
(2) Where EASA AD 2022–0037 requires
compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(3) Where EASA AD 2022–0037 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(4) Where EASA AD 2022–0037 refers to a
torque force check, this AD requires a torque
force inspection. Where EASA AD 2022–
0037 refers to a scissor coupling check, this
AD requires a scissor coupling inspection.
Where EASA AD 2022–0037 refers to an axial
play check, this AD requires an axial play
inspection. Where EASA AD 2022–0037
refers to a quantitative axial play check, this
AD requires a quantitative axial play
inspection. Where EASA AD 2022–0037
refers to a dimensional check, this AD
requires a dimensional inspection.
(5) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0037 specifies
to use tooling, this AD allows the use of
equivalent tooling.
(6) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0037 specifies
discarding parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service.
(7) Where the service information
referenced in paragraphs (1), (4.2), (5.2), and
(6) of EASA AD 2022–0037 specifies to
contact Leonardo Helicopters for instructions
as a result of the M/R rotating scissor
maximum torque force check, this AD
requires corrective action done in accordance
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with a method approved by the Manager,
International Validation Branch, FAA; or
EASA; or Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters’ EASA
Design Organization Approval (DOA). If
approved by the DOA, the approval must
include the DOA-authorized signature.
(8) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022–
0037 specifies to ‘‘interpret the results
(PASSED or FAILED) in accordance with the
instructions of PART I of the ASB;’’ for this
AD, replace that text with, ‘‘interpret the
results by using Tables 1 and 2 to paragraph
90091
(h)(8) of this AD and the inspection results
recorded in Annex E of the service
information referenced in EASA AD 2022–
0037.’’
TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (h)(8)—SCISSOR COUPLING INSPECTION INTERPRETATION
Maximum
torque force
check
Dimensional check
2nd maximum torque
force check
Passed ...........................................
Failed .............................................
Failed .............................................
Failed .............................................
N/A ................................................
Passed ..........................................
Failed ............................................
Passed ..........................................
N/A ................................................
Passed ..........................................
N/A ................................................
Failed ............................................
TABLE 2 TO PARAGRAPH (h)(8)—AXIAL
PLAY INSPECTION INTERPRETATION
Axial play value is 0.25 mm or less
Axial play value is more than 0.25
mm or the ball bearing is dislodged.
Passed.
Failed.
(9) This AD does not require compliance
with paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022–0037.
This AD also does not include Note 1 of
EASA AD 2022–0037.
(10) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD
2022–0037 specifies compliance times of
‘‘200 FH;’’ for this AD, replace each instance
of that text with, ‘‘55 hours time-in-service.’’
This AD does not include Note 3 of EASA
AD 2022–0037.
(11) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0037 cautions
that only approved personnel (Leonardo
Helicopters facilities, Leonardo authorized
component repair centers within the
approved capabilities or customers trained by
Leonardo Helicopters for specific activities)
are permitted to perform the bushing
replacement; this AD does not include those
cautions.
(12) Where paragraph (10) of EASA AD
2022–0037 specifies reporting inspection
results (including the inspection results of no
findings) to Leonardo within 30 days, this
AD requires reporting inspection results at
the applicable time in paragraph (h)(12)(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 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(13) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2022–0037.
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(i) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(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
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Scissor coupling check
outcome
Passed.
Passed.
Failed.
Failed.
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.
(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.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(k) Additional Information
RIN 2120–AA64
For more information about this AD,
contact Jared Hyman, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781) 238–
7799; email 9-AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@faa.gov.
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
(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 2022–0037, dated March 7, 2022;
corrected March 15, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022–0037, 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 at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov.
Issued on December 14, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–28773 Filed 12–28–23; 8:45 am]
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Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–2404; Project
Identifier MCAI–2023–01268–A; Amendment
39–22648; AD 2023–26–05]
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC–
24 airplanes. This AD was prompted by
a determination that the titanium
threaded bolts at the forward end of the
short rudder trim tab actuating rods
could be subject to unexpectedly high
oscillating loads due to aerodynamic
forces acting on the rudder trim tab.
This AD requires periodic replacement
of affected titanium threaded bolts, a
one-time inspection of the rudder mass
balance arm and other elements of the
rudder trim tab installation for correct
attachment, damage (gouges), cracks,
deformation, surface finish, and
corrosion on any surrounding parts and,
depending on findings, accomplishment
of applicable corrective actions, as
specified in a European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) emergency 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 January 3,
2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 3, 2024.
The FAA must receive comments on
this AD by February 12, 2024.
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\29DER1.SGM
29DER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 249 (Friday, December 29, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 90088-90091]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-28773]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-1894; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00334-R;
Amendment 39-22635; AD 2023-25-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII
helicopters. This AD was prompted by multiple reports of excessive
axial play on the ball bearing of the lower half of the main rotor (MR)
rotating scissor assembly. This AD requires one-time scissor coupling
and axial play inspections and repetitive quantitative axial play
inspections and, depending on the results, additional inspections and
replacing certain parts. This AD also requires reporting information
and prohibits installing certain parts unless certain inspections have
been accomplished. These requirements are 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 February 2, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of February 2,
2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2023-1894; 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 mandatory continuing airworthiness
information, 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 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. It is also available in
the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1894.
Other Related Service Information: For Leonardo Helicopters service
information identified in this final rule, contact Leonardo S.p.A
Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G. Agusta
520, 21017 C. Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone (+39) 0331-
225074; fax (+39) 0031-229046; or at
customerportal.leonardocompany.com/en-US. You may also view this
service information at the FAA contact information under Material
Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jared Hyman, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781)
238-7799; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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 Leonardo S.p.a.
Model A109E, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on October 3, 2023 (88 FR 67999). The
NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2022-0037, dated March 7, 2022; corrected
March 15, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0037), issued by EASA, which is the
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. EASA AD
2022-0037 states that there have been multiple reports of excessive
axial play on the ball bearing of the lower half of the MR rotating
scissor assembly. In some cases, this resulted in dislodgement of the
ball bearing from its seat.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require one-time MR rotating
scissor coupling and axial play inspections and
[[Page 90089]]
repetitive quantitative axial play inspections and, depending on the
results, additional inspections and replacing certain parts. The NPRM
also proposed to require reporting information and prohibit installing
certain parts unless certain inspections have been accomplished. The
FAA is issuing this AD to detect and address any excessive axial play
of the MR rotating scissor assembly. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in failure of the MR rotating scissor assembly,
loss of control of the helicopter, and subsequent damage to the
helicopter and injury to occupants. See EASA AD 2022-0037 for
additional background information.
You may examine EASA AD 2022-0037 in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1894.
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
its AD 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.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2022-0037 which requires, for certain
applicable model helicopters, accomplishing one-time MR rotating
scissor coupling and axial play checks. Depending on the results, EASA
AD 2022-0037 requires repetitively measuring the axial play or
replacing certain parts. For all applicable model helicopters, EASA AD
2022-0037 requires accomplishing repetitive qualitative and
quantitative axial play checks and, depending on the results,
repetitively measuring the axial play or replacing certain parts.
Furthermore, EASA AD 2022-0037 requires reporting certain information
to the manufacturer and prohibits installing certain parts on any
helicopter unless the part has passed required inspections.
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 reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. 109EP-177, Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 109S-105, Leonardo
Helicopters ASB No. 109SP-149, and Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 119-
111, each Revision A and dated March 3, 2022. This service information
specifies procedures for inspecting the MR rotating scissor coupling
and axial play, measuring the axial play, inspecting the qualitative
axial play, inspecting the quantitative axial play, and replacing
components of the MR rotating scissor assembly (scissor bracket flange
assembly, rotary scissor sleeve, lower scissor lever assembly, and
upper scissor lever assembly) and bushings.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2022-0037 applies to Model A109LUH helicopters, whereas
this AD does not because that model is not FAA-type certificated. EASA
AD 2022-0037 refers to several actions as a ``check,'' whereas this AD
refers to those actions as an ``inspection'' instead because those
actions must be accomplished by persons authorized under 14 CFR 43.3.
EASA AD 2022-0037 requires discarding certain parts, whereas this AD
requires removing those parts from service instead.
Service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0037 specifies to
contact Leonardo Helicopters for instructions as a result of certain MR
rotating scissor maximum torque force check (inspection) results,
whereas this AD requires accomplishing corrective action in accordance
with a method approved by the FAA, EASA, or Leonardo S.p.a.
Helicopters' EASA Design Organization Approval. EASA AD 2022-0037
requires interpreting the MR rotating scissor coupling and axial play
inspection results (PASSED or FAILED) by using its required service
information, whereas this AD requires interpreting those results by
using tables in the body of this AD and recorded results of certain
inspections. Furthermore, if the scissor coupling inspection result is
an ``UNCERTAIN RESULT,'' the service information referenced in EASA AD
2022-0037 specifies contacting Leonardo Helicopters, whereas this AD
considers an ``UNCERTAIN RESULT'' as ``FAILED.''
EASA AD 2022-0037 requires accomplishing repetitive qualitative
axial play checks, whereas this AD does not. EASA AD 2022-0037 requires
quantitative axial play checks within intervals not to exceed 200
flight hours, whereas this AD requires quantitative axial play
inspections within intervals not to exceed 55 hours time-in-service.
The service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0037 cautions that
only approved personnel are permitted to perform the bushing
replacement, whereas this AD does not include that caution.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 204 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.
The one-time MR rotating scissor coupling and axial play
inspections will take approximately 2 work-hours for an estimated cost
of $170 per helicopter and up to $34,680 for the U.S. fleet.
A quantitative axial play inspection will take approximately 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $17,340 for
the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle.
Measuring the axial play will take approximately 1 work-hour for an
estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $17,340 for the U.S. fleet per
inspection cycle.
Certain corrective action that may be needed as a result of an
inspection can vary significantly from helicopter to helicopter. The
FAA has no data to determine the costs to accomplish the corrective
action or the number of helicopters that may require corrective action.
Replacing the scissor bracket flange assembly will take
approximately 4 work-hours and parts will cost approximately $8,099-
11,574 (depending on part number) for an estimated cost of $8,439-
11,914 per replacement. Alternatively, replacing its bushings will take
approximately 2 work-hours and parts will cost approximately $225 for
an estimated cost of $395 per replacement.
Replacing each rotary scissor sleeve will take approximately 2
work-hours and parts will cost approximately $565 for an estimated cost
of $735 per replacement.
Replacing the lower scissor lever assembly (including the washer
and retaining bolt) will take 2 work-hours and parts will cost
approximately $3,308-3,385 (depending on part number) for an estimated
cost of $3,478-3,555 per replacement. Alternatively, replacing its
bushings will take approximately 2 work-hours and parts will cost
approximately $225
[[Page 90090]]
for an estimated cost of $395 per replacement.
Replacing the upper scissor lever assembly will take approximately
2 work-hours and parts will cost approximately $2,219-3,015 (depending
on part number) for an estimated cost of $2,389-3,185 per replacement.
Alternatively, replacing its bushings will take approximately 2 work-
hours and parts will cost approximately $225 for an estimated cost of
$395 per replacement.
Reporting the inspection results to the manufacturer will take
approximately 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per report.
The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate.
According to the manufacturer, however, some of the costs of this AD
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on
affected operators.
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.
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:
2023-25-08 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-22635; Docket No. FAA-2023-
1894; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00334-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective February 2, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E, A109S,
AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor
System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by multiple reports of excessive axial play
on the ball bearing of the lower half of the main rotor rotating
scissor assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and address
any excessive axial play of the main rotor rotating scissor
assembly. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in
failure of the main rotor rotating scissor assembly, loss of control
of the helicopter, and subsequent damage to the helicopter and
injury to occupants.
(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 AD 2022-0037,
dated March 7, 2022; corrected March 15, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0037).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022-0037
(1) Where EASA AD 2022-0037 defines Affected part ``as
identified in the ASB;'' for this AD, replace that text with ``as
identified in Table 2 of Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin
(ASB) No. 109EP-177, Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 109S-105, Leonardo
Helicopters ASB No. 109SP-149, or Leonardo Helicopters ASB No. 119-
111, each Revision A and dated March 3, 2022, and as applicable to
your model helicopter.''
(2) Where EASA AD 2022-0037 requires compliance in terms of
flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(3) Where EASA AD 2022-0037 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(4) Where EASA AD 2022-0037 refers to a torque force check, this
AD requires a torque force inspection. Where EASA AD 2022-0037
refers to a scissor coupling check, this AD requires a scissor
coupling inspection. Where EASA AD 2022-0037 refers to an axial play
check, this AD requires an axial play inspection. Where EASA AD
2022-0037 refers to a quantitative axial play check, this AD
requires a quantitative axial play inspection. Where EASA AD 2022-
0037 refers to a dimensional check, this AD requires a dimensional
inspection.
(5) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0037 specifies to use tooling, this AD allows the use of equivalent
tooling.
(6) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0037 specifies discarding parts, this AD requires removing those
parts from service.
(7) Where the service information referenced in paragraphs (1),
(4.2), (5.2), and (6) of EASA AD 2022-0037 specifies to contact
Leonardo Helicopters for instructions as a result of the M/R
rotating scissor maximum torque force check, this AD requires
corrective action done in accordance
[[Page 90091]]
with a method approved by the Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters' EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(8) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022-0037 specifies to
``interpret the results (PASSED or FAILED) in accordance with the
instructions of PART I of the ASB;'' for this AD, replace that text
with, ``interpret the results by using Tables 1 and 2 to paragraph
(h)(8) of this AD and the inspection results recorded in Annex E of
the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0037.''
Table 1 to Paragraph (h)(8)--Scissor Coupling Inspection Interpretation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2nd maximum torque Scissor coupling check
Maximum torque force check Dimensional check force check outcome
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Passed............................... N/A.................... N/A.................... Passed.
Failed............................... Passed................. Passed................. Passed.
Failed............................... Failed................. N/A.................... Failed.
Failed............................... Passed................. Failed................. Failed.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 2 to Paragraph (h)(8)--Axial Play Inspection Interpretation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Axial play value is 0.25 mm or less....... Passed.
Axial play value is more than 0.25 mm or Failed.
the ball bearing is dislodged.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(9) This AD does not require compliance with paragraph (2) of
EASA AD 2022-0037. This AD also does not include Note 1 of EASA AD
2022-0037.
(10) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2022-0037 specifies
compliance times of ``200 FH;'' for this AD, replace each instance
of that text with, ``55 hours time-in-service.'' This AD does not
include Note 3 of EASA AD 2022-0037.
(11) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0037 cautions that only approved personnel (Leonardo Helicopters
facilities, Leonardo authorized component repair centers within the
approved capabilities or customers trained by Leonardo Helicopters
for specific activities) are permitted to perform the bushing
replacement; this AD does not include those cautions.
(12) Where paragraph (10) of EASA AD 2022-0037 specifies
reporting inspection results (including the inspection results of no
findings) to Leonardo within 30 days, this AD requires reporting
inspection results at the applicable time in paragraph (h)(12)(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 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD.
(13) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2022-0037.
(i) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(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) Additional Information
For more information about this AD, contact Jared Hyman,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (781) 238-7799; 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 2022-0037,
dated March 7, 2022; corrected March 15, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022-0037, 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 at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations or email [email protected].
Issued on December 14, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-28773 Filed 12-28-23; 8:45 am]
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