Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 24686-24689 [2024-07343]
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24686
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 69 / Tuesday, April 9, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
and
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
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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:
■
2024–07–03 Diamond Aircraft Industries
Inc.: Amendment 39–22724; Docket No.
FAA–2024–0991; Project Identifier
MCAI–2024–00051–A.
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(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective April 24, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Diamond Aircraft
Industries Inc. Model DA 62 airplanes, serial
numbers 62.C001 through 62.C044 inclusive
and 62.008 through 62.203 inclusive,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 5510, Horizontal Stabilizer Structure.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report that
certain revisions of the airplane maintenance
manual specified incorrect torque values for
the horizontal stabilizer attachment bolts.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
incorrect torque values for the horizontal
stabilizer attachment bolts. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in
premature wearing of the horizontal
stabilizer attachment bolts, loss of structural
integrity of the horizontal stabilizer,
subsequent separation of the horizontal
stabilizer from the fuselage, and loss of
control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Required Actions
Within 30 days or 30 hours time-in-service
after the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs later, review the airplane maintenance
records to determine if the horizontal
stabilizer attachment bolts were last torqued
to 45 newton meter (Nm) and if the torque
value is not 45 Nm, or if the value cannot be
determined, before further flight, torque the
bolts to 45 Nm, in accordance with steps 3
through 6 of the Instructions, Section III, in
Diamond Aircraft Industries Work
Instruction WI–MSB–62–052, Revision 0,
dated September 18, 2023, attached to
Diamond Aircraft Industries Mandatory
Service Bulletin MSB 62–052, Revision 0,
dated September 18, 2023 (issued as one
document).
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or 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 (i)(2) of this AD or
email to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-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 responsible Flight Standards Office.
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(i) Additional Information
(1) Refer to Transport Canada AD CF–
2024–02, dated January 12, 2024, for related
information. This Transport Canada AD may
be found in the AD docket at regulations.gov
under Docket No. FAA–2024–0991.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Isabel Saltzman, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (781) 238–
7649; email: isabel.l.saltzman@faa.gov.
(j) 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) Diamond Aircraft Industries Work
Instruction WI–MSB–62–052, Revision 0,
dated September 18, 2023, attached to
Diamond Aircraft Industries Mandatory
Service Bulletin MSB 62–052, Revision 0,
dated September 18, 2023 (issued as one
document).
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information contact
Diamond Aircraft Industries Inc., 1560
Crumlin Road, London, N5V 1S2, Canada;
phone: (519) 457–4041; email: supportcanada@diamondaircraft.com; website:
diamondaircraft.com.
(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-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov.
Issued on March 27, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–07441 Filed 4–4–24; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–2245; Project
Identifier MCAI–2023–00973–R; Amendment
39–22698; AD 2024–05–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 69 / Tuesday, April 9, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW189
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
a determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are
necessary. This AD requires revising the
airworthiness limitations section (ALS)
of the existing helicopter maintenance
manual or instructions for continued
airworthiness (ICA) for your helicopter
and the existing approved maintenance
or inspection program for your
helicopter, as applicable, 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 May 14,
2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of May 14, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–2245; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, the EASA AD,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For EASA material that is
incorporated by reference in this final
rule, contact EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA
material on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N 321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110. It is also available
at regulations.gov under Docket No.
FAA–2023–2245.
Other Related Service Information:
For Leonardo Helicopters service
information identified in this final rule,
contact Leonardo S.p.A., Emanuele
Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.
Agusta 520, 21017 C. Costa di Samarate
(Va) Italy; telephone (+39) 0331–225074;
fax (+39) 0331–229046; or at
customerportal.leonardocompany.com/
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SUMMARY:
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15:44 Apr 08, 2024
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en-US/. 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:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued a series of ADs with
the most recent being EASA AD 2023–
0161, dated August 16, 2023 (EASA AD
2023–0161), to correct an unsafe
condition on Leonardo S.p.A. Model
AW189 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
AW189 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
December 21, 2023 (88 FR 88276). The
NPRM was prompted by a
determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are
necessary. The NPRM proposed to
require accomplishing the actions
specified in EASA AD 2023–0161, as
incorporated by reference, except for
any differences identified as exceptions
in the regulatory text of this AD and
except as discussed under ‘‘Differences
Between this AD and the EASA AD.’’
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on these products.
You may examine the EASA AD in
the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2023–2245.
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.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023–0161 requires
replacing components before exceeding
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24687
their life limits and accomplishing
maintenance tasks within thresholds
and intervals specified in the applicable
ALS as defined in EASA AD 2023–0161.
Depending on the results of the
maintenance tasks, EASA AD 2023–
0161 requires accomplishing corrective
action(s) or contacting Leonardo
[Leonardo S.p.a.] for approved
instructions and accomplishing those
instructions. EASA AD 2023–0161 also
requires revising the Aircraft
Maintenance Programme (AMP) by
incorporating the limitations, tasks, and
associated thresholds and intervals
described in the specified ALS as
applicable to the helicopter model and
configuration. Revising the AMP
constitutes terminating action for the
requirement to record accomplishment
of the actions of replacing components
before exceeding their life limits and
accomplishing maintenance tasks
within the thresholds and intervals
specified in the applicable ALS as
required by EASA AD 2023–0161 for
demonstration of AD compliance on a
continued basis.
This material is reasonably available
because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course
of business or by the means identified
in ADDRESSES.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Leonardo
AW189 document 89–A–AMPI–00–P,
Air Vehicle Maintenance Planning
Information, Chapter 4, Airworthiness
Limitations, Issue 25, dated July 5, 2023,
for helicopters equipped with General
Electric CT7–2E1 engines. This service
information specifies procedures for
airworthiness limitations, tasks, and
associated thresholds and intervals for
various parts; including a new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitation for a
certain component installed in the main
rotor gearbox.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
EASA AD 2023–0161 requires
replacing certain components before
exceeding applicable life limits,
accomplishing certain maintenance
tasks within thresholds and intervals as
specified in the ALS, as defined within,
and depending on the results,
accomplishing corrective action within
the compliance time specified in that
ALS. EASA AD 2023–0161 also requires
revising the approved AMP to
incorporate the limitations, tasks, and
associated thresholds and intervals
described in that ALS within 12 months
after its effective date. Whereas, this AD
requires revising existing documents
and programs within 30 days to
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 69 / Tuesday, April 9, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
incorporate the limitations, tasks, and
associated thresholds and intervals
described in that ALS, and clarifies that
if an incorporated limitation or
threshold therein is reached before 30
days after the effective date of this final
rule, you still have up to 30 days after
the effective date of this final rule to
accomplish the corresponding task.
Additionally, EASA AD 2023–0161
requires using 89–E–AMPI–00–P Air
Vehicle Maintenance Planning
Information, Chapter 04, ALS Issue 09,
dated July 5, 2023, for revising the ALS.
This service information is applicable
for helicopters equipped with SAFRAN
ANETO–1K engines. This AD will not
allow this service information because
that engine has not been FAA typecertificated for Model AW189
helicopters.
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Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 4 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.
Revising the ALS of the existing
helicopter maintenance manual or ICA
for your helicopter and the existing
approved maintenance or inspection
program for your helicopter, as
applicable, will take 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $680 for the U.S. fleet.
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
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:44 Apr 08, 2024
Jkt 262001
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:
■
2024–05–07 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–22698; Docket No. FAA–2023–2245;
Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00973–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective May 14, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a.
Model AW189 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 a determination
that new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations are necessary. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address fatigue cracking, damage,
and corrosion in principle structural
elements. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in failure of a part
and loss of control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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(g) Required Actions
Except as specified in paragraphs (h) and
(i) of this AD: Comply with all required
actions and compliance times specified in,
and in accordance with, European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023–
0161, dated August 16, 2023 (EASA AD
2023–0161).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023–0161
(1) Where EASA AD 2023–0161 defines
‘‘the ALS’’ as ‘‘Leonardo AW189 document
89–A–AMPI–00–P (Air Vehicle Maintenance
Planning Information), Chapter 04,
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS)
Issue 025, applicable for helicopters
equipped with General Electric (GE) CT7–
2E1 engines; or document 89–E–AMPI–00–P
(Air Vehicle Maintenance Planning
Information), Chapter 04, ALS Issue 09,
applicable for helicopters equipped with
SAFRAN ANETO–1K engines.;’’ for this AD,
replace that definition with ‘‘Leonardo
AW189 document 89–A–AMPI–00–P, Air
Vehicle Maintenance Planning Information,
Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations, Issue
25, dated July 5, 2023 (for helicopters
equipped with General Electric CT7–2E1
engines).’’
(2) Where EASA AD 2023–0161 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(3) This AD does not adopt the
requirements specified in paragraphs (1), (2),
(4), and (5) of EASA AD 2023–0161.
(4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023–
0161 specifies ‘‘Within 12 months after the
effective date of this AD, revise the approved
AMP,’’ this AD requires replacing those
words with ‘‘Within 30 days after the
effective date of this AD, revise the
airworthiness limitations section of your
existing helicopter maintenance manual or
instructions for continued airworthiness and
your existing approved maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable.’’
(5) The initial compliance time for doing
the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2023–0161 is on or before the applicable
‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated thresholds’’ as
incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023–0161, or
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD, whichever occurs later.
(6) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2023–0161.
(i) Provisions for Alternative Actions,
Thresholds, and Intervals, Including Life
Limits
No alternative actions and associated
thresholds and intervals, including life
limits, are allowed for compliance with
paragraph (g) of this AD unless they are
approved as specified in the provisions of the
‘‘Ref. Publications’’ section of EASA AD
2023–0161.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 69 / Tuesday, April 9, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
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.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2023–0161, dated August 16,
2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023–0161, 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 service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations or email: fr.inspection@
nara.gov.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
Issued on March 4, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–07343 Filed 4–8–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
15:44 Apr 08, 2024
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2024–0026; Project
Identifier MCAI–2023–00776–T; Amendment
39–22710; AD 2024–06–05]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ
Aviation ULC (Type Certificate
Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.)
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
(l) Related Information
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Jkt 262001
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all MHI
RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600–2E25
(Regional Jet Series 1000) airplanes.
This AD was prompted by a
determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are
necessary. This AD requires revising the
existing maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to incorporate
new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations, as specified in a Transport
Canada 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 May 14,
2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of May 14, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2024–0026; 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
(MCAI), any comments received, and
other information. The address for
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For Transport Canada material
incorporated by reference in this AD,
contact Transport Canada, Transport
Canada National Aircraft Certification,
159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario
K1A 0N5, Canada; telephone 888–663–
3639; email TC.AirworthinessDirectivesConsignesdenavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca;
website tc.canada.ca/en/aviation.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
SUMMARY:
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24689
Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
It is also available in the AD docket at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2024–0026.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Fatin Saumik, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–
228–7300; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@
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 MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model
CL–600–2E25 (Regional Jet Series 1000)
airplanes. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on January 11, 2024
(89 FR 1849). The NPRM was prompted
by AD CF–2023–43, dated June 21,
2023, issued by Transport Canada,
which is the aviation authority for
Canada (Transport Canada AD CF–
2023–43) (also referred to as the MCAI).
The MCAI states that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations
have been developed.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations, as
specified in Transport Canada AD CF–
2023–43. The FAA is issuing this AD to
prevent potential fatigue cracking and
damage in principal structural elements.
The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in reduced structural
integrity of the airplane.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2024–0026.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of
the cost to the public.
Conclusion
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
country and is approved for operation in
the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s
bilateral agreement with this State of
Design Authority, it has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA
reviewed the relevant data and
determined that air safety requires
adopting this AD as proposed.
Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD
E:\FR\FM\09APR1.SGM
09APR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 69 (Tuesday, April 9, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 24686-24689]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-07343]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-2245; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00973-R;
Amendment 39-22698; AD 2024-05-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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[[Page 24687]]
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW189 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a
determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations
are necessary. This AD requires revising the airworthiness limitations
section (ALS) of the existing helicopter maintenance manual or
instructions for continued airworthiness (ICA) for your helicopter and
the existing approved maintenance or inspection program for your
helicopter, as applicable, 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 May 14, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 14,
2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2023-2245; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, the EASA AD, any comments received,
and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For EASA material that is incorporated by reference in
this final rule, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email [email protected]; internet
easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA material on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N 321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-2245.
Other Related Service Information: For Leonardo Helicopters service
information identified in this final rule, contact Leonardo S.p.A.,
Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G. Agusta 520, 21017 C.
Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone (+39) 0331-225074; fax (+39)
0331-229046; 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: 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 a series of ADs with the most recent being
EASA AD 2023-0161, dated August 16, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0161), to
correct an unsafe condition on Leonardo S.p.A. Model AW189 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 AW189 helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on
December 21, 2023 (88 FR 88276). The NPRM was prompted by a
determination that new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations
are necessary. The NPRM proposed to require accomplishing the actions
specified in EASA AD 2023-0161, as incorporated by reference, except
for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of
this AD and except as discussed under ``Differences Between this AD and
the EASA AD.'' The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at regulations.gov
under Docket No. FAA-2023-2245.
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.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023-0161 requires replacing components before exceeding
their life limits and accomplishing maintenance tasks within thresholds
and intervals specified in the applicable ALS as defined in EASA AD
2023-0161. Depending on the results of the maintenance tasks, EASA AD
2023-0161 requires accomplishing corrective action(s) or contacting
Leonardo [Leonardo S.p.a.] for approved instructions and accomplishing
those instructions. EASA AD 2023-0161 also requires revising the
Aircraft Maintenance Programme (AMP) by incorporating the limitations,
tasks, and associated thresholds and intervals described in the
specified ALS as applicable to the helicopter model and configuration.
Revising the AMP constitutes terminating action for the requirement to
record accomplishment of the actions of replacing components before
exceeding their life limits and accomplishing maintenance tasks within
the thresholds and intervals specified in the applicable ALS as
required by EASA AD 2023-0161 for demonstration of AD compliance on a
continued basis.
This material is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in ADDRESSES.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Leonardo AW189 document 89-A-AMPI-00-P, Air
Vehicle Maintenance Planning Information, Chapter 4, Airworthiness
Limitations, Issue 25, dated July 5, 2023, for helicopters equipped
with General Electric CT7-2E1 engines. This service information
specifies procedures for airworthiness limitations, tasks, and
associated thresholds and intervals for various parts; including a new
or more restrictive airworthiness limitation for a certain component
installed in the main rotor gearbox.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2023-0161 requires replacing certain components before
exceeding applicable life limits, accomplishing certain maintenance
tasks within thresholds and intervals as specified in the ALS, as
defined within, and depending on the results, accomplishing corrective
action within the compliance time specified in that ALS. EASA AD 2023-
0161 also requires revising the approved AMP to incorporate the
limitations, tasks, and associated thresholds and intervals described
in that ALS within 12 months after its effective date. Whereas, this AD
requires revising existing documents and programs within 30 days to
[[Page 24688]]
incorporate the limitations, tasks, and associated thresholds and
intervals described in that ALS, and clarifies that if an incorporated
limitation or threshold therein is reached before 30 days after the
effective date of this final rule, you still have up to 30 days after
the effective date of this final rule to accomplish the corresponding
task.
Additionally, EASA AD 2023-0161 requires using 89-E-AMPI-00-P Air
Vehicle Maintenance Planning Information, Chapter 04, ALS Issue 09,
dated July 5, 2023, for revising the ALS. This service information is
applicable for helicopters equipped with SAFRAN ANETO-1K engines. This
AD will not allow this service information because that engine has not
been FAA type-certificated for Model AW189 helicopters.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 4 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.
Revising the ALS of the existing helicopter maintenance manual or
ICA for your helicopter and the existing approved maintenance or
inspection program for your helicopter, as applicable, will take 2
work-hours for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $680 for
the U.S. fleet.
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:
2024-05-07 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-22698; Docket No. FAA-2023-
2245; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00973-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective May 14, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW189 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 a determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion
in principle structural elements. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in failure of a part and loss of control of
the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
Except as specified in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Comply
with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2023-0161, dated August 16, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0161).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023-0161
(1) Where EASA AD 2023-0161 defines ``the ALS'' as ``Leonardo
AW189 document 89-A-AMPI-00-P (Air Vehicle Maintenance Planning
Information), Chapter 04, Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS)
Issue 025, applicable for helicopters equipped with General Electric
(GE) CT7-2E1 engines; or document 89-E-AMPI-00-P (Air Vehicle
Maintenance Planning Information), Chapter 04, ALS Issue 09,
applicable for helicopters equipped with SAFRAN ANETO-1K engines.;''
for this AD, replace that definition with ``Leonardo AW189 document
89-A-AMPI-00-P, Air Vehicle Maintenance Planning Information,
Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations, Issue 25, dated July 5, 2023
(for helicopters equipped with General Electric CT7-2E1 engines).''
(2) Where EASA AD 2023-0161 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in
paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (5) of EASA AD 2023-0161.
(4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0161 specifies ``Within
12 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the approved
AMP,'' this AD requires replacing those words with ``Within 30 days
after the effective date of this AD, revise the airworthiness
limitations section of your existing helicopter maintenance manual
or instructions for continued airworthiness and your existing
approved maintenance or inspection program, as applicable.''
(5) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0161 is on or before the applicable
``limitations'' and ``associated thresholds'' as incorporated by the
requirements of paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0161, or within 30
days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
(6) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2023-0161.
(i) Provisions for Alternative Actions, Thresholds, and Intervals,
Including Life Limits
No alternative actions and associated thresholds and intervals,
including life limits, are allowed for compliance with paragraph (g)
of this AD unless they are approved as specified in the provisions
of the ``Ref. Publications'' section of EASA AD 2023-0161.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
[[Page 24689]]
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(l) 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].
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023-0161,
dated August 16, 2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023-0161, 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 service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations or
email: [email protected].
Issued on March 4, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-07343 Filed 4-8-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
