Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 18774-18776 [2024-05478]
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18774
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 52 / Friday, March 15, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
limited to, Capitol Helicopters Inc.; Central
Copters Inc.; and Sixtyhawk TC, LLC.
(iii) Model S–70 helicopters; current type
certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
(iv) Model S–70A helicopters; current type
certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
(v) Model S–70C helicopters; current type
certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
(vi) Model S–70C(M) helicopters; current
type certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
(vii) Model S–70C(M1) helicopters; current
type certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
(viii) Model S–70M helicopters; current
type certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.
(ix) Model UH–60A helicopters; current
type certificate holders include, but are not
limited to, ACE Aeronautics LLC; Billings
Flying Service, Inc; Blackhawk Mission
Equipment; Capitol Helicopters Inc.; Carson
Helicopters; Delta Enterprise; Heliqwest
International Inc.; High Performance
Helicopters Corp.; Northwest Rotorcraft, LLC;
Pickering Aviation, Inc.; PJ Helicopters Inc;
Reeder Flying Service Inc.; Sixtyhawk TC,
LLC; Skydance Blackhawk Operations LLC;
Timberline Helicopters, Inc.; and Unical Air
Inc.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 7200, Engine (Turbine/Turboprop);
7250, Turbine Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by at least four
reports of failures of the torque reference tube
magnetic insert braze joint of the power
turbine drive shaft assembly within the last
several months. The FAA is issuing this AD
to prevent failure of the power turbine drive
shaft reference torque tube magnetic insert
braze joint. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in improper torque
and engine speed indications, which in
combination with specific phases of flight,
could create an unacceptably high flight crew
workload in maintaining control of the
aircraft, and result in consequent loss of
control of the aircraft.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) For GE Model CT7–2E1, CT7–2F1,
CT7–8A, CT7–8E, CT7–8F5 engines: Before
further flight, do a phase array ultrasonic
inspection of the torque reference tube
magnetic insert braze joint of the power
turbine drive shaft assembly for inadequate
braze coverage in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.A.(2) of CT7–2E1 S/B 72–A0034, or CT7–
8 S/B 72–A0118, Revision 01, as applicable.
(2) For engines installed on the restricted
category aircraft specified in paragraphs
(c)(2)(i) through (ix) of this AD: Before further
flight, do a phase array ultrasonic inspection
of the torque reference tube magnetic insert
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:00 Mar 14, 2024
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braze joint of the power turbine drive shaft
assembly for inadequate braze coverage using
a method approved by the Manager, AIR–520
Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA.
(3) If during any inspection required by
paragraphs (g)(1) or (2) of this AD, any braze
coverage of the torque reference tube
magnetic insert braze joint is found to be less
than 42 percent, before further flight, repair
or replace the power turbine drive shaft
assembly.
(h) Special Flight Permit
A special flight permit may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199
to operate the aircraft to a location where the
phase array ultrasonic inspection can be
performed, provided no passengers are
onboard.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, AIR–520 Continued
Operational Safety 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 AIR–520 Continued
Operational Safety Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in
paragraph (j) of this AD and email to: ANEAD-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.
(j) Additional Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Barbara Caufield, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone: (781) 238–7146;
email: barbara.caufield@faa.gov.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) General Electric Company (GE) Alert
Service Bulletin (ASB) CT7–2E1 S/B 72–
A0034, dated February 26, 2024.
(ii) GE ASB CT7–8 S/B 72–A0118, Revision
01, dated February 26, 2024.
(3) For service information that is
incorporated by reference, contact General
Electric Company, 1 Neumann Way,
Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: (513) 552–
3272; email: aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com;
website: ge.com.
(4) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational
Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on
the availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110.
(5) You may view this material at the
National Archives and Records
PO 00000
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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 March 8, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–05547 Filed 3–12–24; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–2231; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01623–R; Amendment
39–22684; AD 2024–04–05]
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 AB412 and
AB412 EP helicopters. This AD was
prompted by reports of cracks in the
lateral mounts of the main transmission
support case. This AD requires
repetitive visual inspections and
fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPI)
and, depending on the results,
corrective action, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 19,
2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of April 19, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–2231; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, any comments
received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
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 that is identified
in this final rule, contact EASA, KonradSUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\15MRR1.SGM
15MRR1
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 52 / Friday, March 15, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; phone +49 221 8999 000;
email Ads@easa.europa.eu; website
easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA
material on the EASA website
ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110. It is also available
at regulations.gov under Docket No.
FAA–2023–2231.
Other Related Service Information:
For Bell Helicopter service information
identified in this final rule, contact Bell
Textron, Inc., P.O. Box 482, Fort Worth,
TX 76101; phone 1–450–437–2862 or 1–
800–363–8023; fax 1–450–433–0272;
email productsupport@bellflight.com; or
at bellflight.com/support/contactsupport. You may also view this service
information at the FAA contact
information under Material
Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 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.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2022–0258,
dated December 20, 2022 (EASA AD
2022–0258), to correct an unsafe
condition on all Leonardo S.p.A. Model
AB212, AB412, and AB412EP
helicopters.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Leonardo S.p.a. Model
AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on December 6, 2023 (88 FR
84767). The NPRM was prompted by
reports of cracks in the lateral mounts
of the main transmission support case.
Such cracking is usually caused by
excessive corrosion of the surface under
a washer and originates from a washer
attachment screw threaded hole.
Cracking can occur at the upper or
lower surfaces of the lateral mount. The
NPRM proposed to require repetitive
visual inspections and FPI and,
depending on the results, corrective
action, as specified in EASA AD 2022–
0258.
The FAA is issuing this AD to detect
and address cracking of the main
transmission support case. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:00 Mar 14, 2024
Jkt 262001
in the loss of load carrying capabilities
of the main transmission and
subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter. See EASA AD 2022–0258 for
additional background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These helicopters have been approved
by EASA and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the
European Union, EASA has notified the
FAA about the unsafe condition
described in its AD. The FAA reviewed
the relevant data and determined that
air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these helicopters. Except
for a minor editorial change, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM. The
change will not increase the economic
burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2022–0258 requires
repetitive visual inspections and FPIs of
the main transmission support case and,
depending on the findings, corrective
action. Corrective actions include
repairing or replacing the main
transmission support case hardware
including screws, washers, or case
bushings, repairing the lateral mounts,
or replacing the main transmission
support case.
This material is reasonably available
because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course
of business or by the means identified
in the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Bell
Helicopter Component Repair and
Overhaul Manual (CR&O) BHT–412–
CR&O Chapter 63, paragraphs 63–57
Transmission Main Support CaseInspection and 63–58 Transmission
Main Support Case-Repair, Revision 12,
dated February 28, 2020. This service
information specifies procedures for
inspecting and repairing the main
transmission support case.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
EASA AD 2022–0258 applies to
Model AB212 helicopters, whereas this
AD does not because that model is not
FAA type-certificated.
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18775
The service information referenced in
EASA AD 2022–0258 specifies
contacting Product Support Engineering
for possible repairs regarding corrosion
or pitting in the case bushings that
exceeds allowable limits, whereas this
AD requires repair done in accordance
with a method approved by the FAA,
EASA, or Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters’
EASA Design Organization Approval.
Where EASA AD 2022–0258 requires
performing an FPI, this AD requires that
the FPI be performed by a Level II or
Level III inspector certified in the FAAacceptable standards for nondestructive
inspection personnel.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 69 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.
Visually inspecting the main
transmission support case takes
approximately 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $11,730 for the U.S. fleet, per
inspection cycle. Performing an FPI of
the main transmission support case
takes approximately 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $11,730 for the U.S. fleet, per
inspection cycle.
The FAA has no way of determining
the costs pertaining to necessary repairs
that are required to be done. Replacing
the transmission support case assembly
hardware parts including screws,
washers, and case bushings takes
approximately 2 work-hours and parts
cost up to $4,000 per helicopter for an
estimated cost of up to $4,170 per
helicopter. Replacing the main
transmission support case takes
approximately 47 work-hours and parts
cost approximately $120,000 for an
estimated cost of $123,995 per
helicopter.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 52 / Friday, March 15, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
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:
■
2024–04–05 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–22684; Docket No. FAA 2023–2231;
Project Identifier MCAI–2022–01623–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective April 19, 2024.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model
AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6320, Main Rotor Gearbox.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:00 Mar 14, 2024
Jkt 262001
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of cracks
in the lateral mounts of the main
transmission support case. The FAA is
issuing this AD to detect and address
cracking of the main transmission support
case. The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in the loss of load carrying
capabilities of the main transmission and
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-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.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(j) Related Information
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.
(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 2022–0258, dated
December 20, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0258).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022–0258
(1) Where EASA AD 2022–0258 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2022–0258 specifies
contacting Product Support Engineering for
possible repairs regarding corrosion or pitting
in a case bushing that exceeds allowable
limits, this AD requires repair done in
accordance 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 DOAauthorized signature.
(3) Where paragraphs (3) and (4) of EASA
AD 2022–0258 require replacing a
component, this AD requires removing the
component from service.
(4) Where paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2022–
0258 requires replacing the main
transmission support case, this AD requires
removing the main transmission support case
assembly from service.
(5) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022–
0258 requires accomplishing a fluorescent
penetrant inspection (FPI) of the main
transmission support case, this AD requires
that FPI be accomplished by a Level II or
Level III inspector certified in the FAAacceptable standards for nondestructive
inspection personnel.
Note 1 to paragraph (h)(5): Advisory
Circular 65–31B contains examples of FAAacceptable Level II and Level III qualification
standards criteria for inspection personnel
doing nondestructive test inspections.
(6) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2022–0258.
(i) 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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Sfmt 4700
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2022–0258, dated December 20,
2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022–0258, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; phone +49 221 8999 000;
email ADs@easa.europa.eu; website
easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA
material on the EASA website
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, 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 February 16, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–05478 Filed 3–14–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–2148; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–00706–R; Amendment
39–22680; AD 2024–04–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD)
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
AGENCY:
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15MRR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 52 (Friday, March 15, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 18774-18776]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-05478]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-2231; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01623-R;
Amendment 39-22684; AD 2024-04-05]
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 AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters. This AD was
prompted by reports of cracks in the lateral mounts of the main
transmission support case. This AD requires repetitive visual
inspections and fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPI) and, depending
on the results, corrective action, as specified in a European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 19, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 19,
2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2023-2231; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket 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 that is identified in this final rule,
contact EASA, Konrad-
[[Page 18775]]
Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone +49 221 8999 000; email
[email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA
material on the EASA website ad.easa.europa.eu.
You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-2231.
Other Related Service Information: For Bell Helicopter service
information identified in this final rule, contact Bell Textron, Inc.,
P.O. Box 482, Fort Worth, TX 76101; phone 1-450-437-2862 or 1-800-363-
8023; fax 1-450-433-0272; email [email protected]; or at
bellflight.com/support/contact-support. You may also view this service
information at the FAA contact information under Material Incorporated
by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sungmo Cho, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (781)
238-7241; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2022-0258, dated December 20, 2022
(EASA AD 2022-0258), to correct an unsafe condition on all Leonardo
S.p.A. Model AB212, AB412, and AB412EP helicopters.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Leonardo S.p.a.
Model AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on December 6, 2023 (88 FR 84767). The NPRM was prompted by
reports of cracks in the lateral mounts of the main transmission
support case. Such cracking is usually caused by excessive corrosion of
the surface under a washer and originates from a washer attachment
screw threaded hole. Cracking can occur at the upper or lower surfaces
of the lateral mount. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive visual
inspections and FPI and, depending on the results, corrective action,
as specified in EASA AD 2022-0258.
The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and address cracking of the
main transmission support case. The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in the loss of load carrying capabilities of the main
transmission and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. See EASA
AD 2022-0258 for additional background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA about the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these helicopters. Except for a minor editorial change,
this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. The change will not
increase the economic burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2022-0258 requires repetitive visual inspections and FPIs
of the main transmission support case and, depending on the findings,
corrective action. Corrective actions include repairing or replacing
the main transmission support case hardware including screws, washers,
or case bushings, repairing the lateral mounts, or replacing the main
transmission support case.
This material is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Bell Helicopter Component Repair and Overhaul
Manual (CR&O) BHT-412-CR&O Chapter 63, paragraphs 63-57 Transmission
Main Support Case-Inspection and 63-58 Transmission Main Support Case-
Repair, Revision 12, dated February 28, 2020. This service information
specifies procedures for inspecting and repairing the main transmission
support case.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2022-0258 applies to Model AB212 helicopters, whereas this
AD does not because that model is not FAA type-certificated.
The service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0258 specifies
contacting Product Support Engineering for possible repairs regarding
corrosion or pitting in the case bushings that exceeds allowable
limits, whereas this AD requires repair done in accordance with a
method approved by the FAA, EASA, or Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters' EASA
Design Organization Approval.
Where EASA AD 2022-0258 requires performing an FPI, this AD
requires that the FPI be performed by a Level II or Level III inspector
certified in the FAA-acceptable standards for nondestructive inspection
personnel.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 69 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.
Visually inspecting the main transmission support case takes
approximately 2 work-hours for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $11,730 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. Performing an FPI
of the main transmission support case takes approximately 2 work-hours
for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $11,730 for the U.S.
fleet, per inspection cycle.
The FAA has no way of determining the costs pertaining to necessary
repairs that are required to be done. Replacing the transmission
support case assembly hardware parts including screws, washers, and
case bushings takes approximately 2 work-hours and parts cost up to
$4,000 per helicopter for an estimated cost of up to $4,170 per
helicopter. Replacing the main transmission support case takes
approximately 47 work-hours and parts cost approximately $120,000 for
an estimated cost of $123,995 per helicopter.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds
[[Page 18776]]
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.
39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2024-04-05 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-22684; Docket No. FAA 2023-
2231; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01623-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 19, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and AB412 EP
helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6320, Main Rotor
Gearbox.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of cracks in the lateral mounts
of the main transmission support case. The FAA is issuing this AD to
detect and address cracking of the main transmission support case.
The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in the loss of
load carrying capabilities of the main transmission 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
2022-0258, dated December 20, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0258).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2022-0258
(1) Where EASA AD 2022-0258 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-
0258 specifies contacting Product Support Engineering for possible
repairs regarding corrosion or pitting in a case bushing that
exceeds allowable limits, this AD requires repair done in accordance
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.
(3) Where paragraphs (3) and (4) of EASA AD 2022-0258 require
replacing a component, this AD requires removing the component from
service.
(4) Where paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2022-0258 requires replacing
the main transmission support case, this AD requires removing the
main transmission support case assembly from service.
(5) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022-0258 requires
accomplishing a fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) of the main
transmission support case, this AD requires that FPI be accomplished
by a Level II or Level III inspector certified in the FAA-acceptable
standards for nondestructive inspection personnel.
Note 1 to paragraph (h)(5): Advisory Circular 65-31B contains
examples of FAA-acceptable Level II and Level III qualification
standards criteria for inspection personnel doing nondestructive
test inspections.
(6) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2022-0258.
(i) 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 (j) 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.
(j) Related Information
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: [email protected].
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022-0258,
dated December 20, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2022-0258, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; phone +49 221 8999 000; email
[email protected]; website easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA
material on the EASA website ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, 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 February 16, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-05478 Filed 3-14-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
