Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes, 33206-33209 [2024-09084]
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 83 / Monday, April 29, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
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.
stage rotors have potentially degraded knifeedge seals and abrasive coating of the rear
wing 4th stage rotor due to having been
cleaned in alkaline solution without masking
the knife-edge seal coating. The FAA is
issuing this AD to prevent material
degradation and fracture of the HPC 2nd
stage rotor and HPC 4th stage rotor. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in uncontained part release or dualengine shutdown, damage to engine, damage
to airplane, and loss of the airplane.
(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.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
(g) Required Actions
(1) At the next engine shop visit after the
effective date of this AD, remove the HPC
2nd stage rotor having a part number and
serial number identified in the Applicability,
Table 2, of PW ASB PW1000G–C–72–00–
0208–00A–930A–D, Issue 002, and replace
with a part eligible for installation.
(2) At the next engine shop visit after the
effective date of this AD, remove the HPC 4th
stage rotor having a part number and serial
number identified in the Applicability, Table
2, of PW ASB PW1000G–C–72–00–0208–
00A–930A–D, Issue 002, and replace with a
part eligible for installation.
(l) 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) Pratt & Whitney Alert Service Bulletin
PW1000G–C–72–00–0208–00A–930A–D,
Issue 002, dated January 18, 2024.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Pratt & Whitney service information
identified in this AD, contact International
Aero Engines, LLC, 400 Main Street, East
Hartford, CT 06118; phone: (860) 565–0140;
email: help24@pw.utc.com; website:
connect.prattwhitney.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at 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
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locationsoremailfr.inspection@nara.gov.
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:
■
2024–06–14 International Aero Engines,
LLC: Amendment 39–22719; Docket No.
FAA–2023–1989; Project Identifier AD–
2023–00512–E.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective June 3, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
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(c) Applicability
This AD applies to International Aero
Engines, LLC Model PW1124G1–JM,
PW1127G–JM, PW1127GA–JM, PW1129G–
JM, PW1130G–JM, PW1133G–JM, and
PW1133GA–JM engines having a highpressure compressor (HPC) 2nd stage rotor or
HPC 4th stage rotor having a part number and
serial number identified in the Applicability,
Table 2, of Pratt & Whitney (PW) Alert
Service Bulletin (ASB) PW1000G–C–72–00–
0208–00A–930A–D, Issue 002, dated January
18, 2024 (PW ASB PW1000G–C–72–00–
0208–00A–930A–D, Issue 002).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor
Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report that
certain HPC 2nd stage rotors and HPC 4th
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(h) Definitions
(1) For the purposes of this AD, a ‘‘part
eligible for installation’’ is:
(i) Any HPC 2nd stage rotor or HPC 4th
stage rotor, as applicable, that does not have
a part number and serial number identified
in the Applicability, Table 2, of PW ASB
PW1000G–C–72–00–0208–00A–930A–D,
Issue 002; or
(ii) Any HPC 2nd stage rotor or HPC 4th
stage rotor, as applicable, that has
incorporated PW ASB PW1000G–C–72–00–
0208–00A–930A–D, Issue 002.
(2) For the purposes of this AD, an ‘‘engine
shop visit’’ is the induction of an engine into
the shop for maintenance involving the
separation of the ‘‘H’’ flange.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for the replacement of
the HPC 2nd stage rotor or HPC 4th stage
rotor required by paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of
this AD if the HPC 2nd stage rotor or HPC
4th stage rotor incorporated PW Service
Bulletin PW1000G–C–72–00–0208–00A–
930A–D, Issue 001, dated September 13,
2022, before the effective date of this AD.
(j) 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, AIR–520 Continued
Operational Safety Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in
paragraph (k) of this AD and email to: ANEAD-AMOC@faa.gov.
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(k) Additional Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Carol Nguyen, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone: (781) 238–7655;
email: carol.nguyen@faa.gov.
Issued on March 22, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–09104 Filed 4–26–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2024–0045; Project
Identifier MCAI–2023–01088–A; Amendment
39–22740; AD 2024–08–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023–12–
17, which applied to Pilatus Aircraft
Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC–12, PC–12/45,
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 83 / Monday, April 29, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
PC–12/47, and PC–12/47E airplanes. AD
2023–12–17 required revising the
airworthiness limitation section (ALS)
of the existing aircraft maintenance
manual (AMM) or Instructions for
Continued Airworthiness (ICA) for your
airplane by introducing new and more
restrictive instructions and maintenance
tasks as specified in the component
limitations section, which includes
repetitive inspections for cracks in the
lower main spar connection of the
horizontal stabilizer. Since the FAA
issued AD 2023–12–17, the FAA has
determined that new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations are necessary.
This AD requires revising the ALS of
your existing AMM or ICA and your
existing approved maintenance or
inspection program, 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 June 3, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of June 3, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2024–0045; 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 EASA material, 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
this material on the EASA website at
ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this material 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. It is also
available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2024–0045.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue,
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone:
(816) 329–4059; email: doug.rudolph@
faa.gov.
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SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Conclusion
Background
These products have been approved
by the aviation authority of another
country and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with this
State of Design Authority, it has notified
the FAA of the unsafe condition
described in the MCAI referenced
above. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data, considered the comments
received, and determined that air safety
requires adopting the AD as proposed.
Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products. This AD is adopted as
proposed in the NPRM.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2023–12–17,
Amendment 39–22475 (88 FR 42604,
July 3, 2023) (AD 2023–12–17). AD
2023–12–17 applied to Pilatus Model
PC–12, PC–12/45, PC–12/47, and PC–
12/47E airplanes. AD 2023–12–17
required incorporating new revisions to
the ALS of the existing AMM or ICA for
your airplane to establish new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations that
include repetitive inspections for cracks
in the lower main spar connection of the
horizontal stabilizer. The FAA issued
AD 2023–12–17 to address cracks in the
lower main spar connection of the
horizontal stabilizer and failure of
certain parts, which could result in loss
of airplane control.
The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on February 2, 2024 (89 FR
7297). The NPRM was prompted by
EASA AD 2023–0184, dated October 19,
2023 (EASA AD 2023–0184) (also
referred to as the MCAI), issued by
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for
the Member States of the European
Union. The MCAI states that new or
more restrictive tasks and limitations
have been developed. These new or
more restrictive airworthiness
limitations include repetitive eddy
current inspections for cracks in the
main landing gear yoke fitting.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2024–0045.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require revising the ALS of your existing
AMM or ICA and your existing
approved maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, as specified in
EASA AD 2023–0184. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address failure of
certain parts, which could result in
asymmetric main landing gear failure
that could lead to loss of airplane
control during take-off, landing, and
taxiing operations. Additionally, the
actions required to address the unsafe
condition in AD 2023–12–17 are
included in ‘‘the applicable ALS,’’ as
defined in EASA AD 2023–0184.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from
two anonymous commenters, an
individual, and the Air Line Pilots
Association, International (ALPA). All
commenters supported the NPRM
without change.
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Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023–0184 requires certain
actions and associated thresholds and
intervals, including life limits and
maintenance tasks. EASA AD 2023–
0184 also requires doing corrective
actions if any discrepancy (as defined in
‘‘the applicable ALS’’ as defined in
EASA AD 2023–0184) is found during
accomplishment of any task required by
paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2023–0184
and revising the aircraft maintenance
program (AMP) by incorporating the
limitations, tasks, and associated
thresholds and intervals described in
‘‘the applicable ALS’’ as defined in
EASA AD 2023–0184. 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.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI
Paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2023–0184
requires replacing each component
before exceeding the applicable life
limit and within the identified
thresholds and intervals accomplishing
all applicable maintenance tasks as
specified in the applicable ALS for that
airplane. Paragraph (2) of EASA AD
2023–0184 requires corrective actions in
accordance with the applicable Pilatus
maintenance documentation or
contacting Pilatus for approved
instructions and accomplishing those
instructions accordingly. Paragraph (4)
of EASA AD 2023–0184 provides credit
for performing actions in accordance
with previous revisions of the Pilatus
AMM. Paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2023–
0184 explains that after revision of the
AMP, it is not necessary to record
accomplishment of individual actions
for demonstration of AD compliance.
This AD does not require compliance
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 83 / Monday, April 29, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
with paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (5) of
EASA AD 2023–0184.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 1,030 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following
costs to comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Revise the ALS ................................
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ...............................
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
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Regulatory Findings
The FAA has determined that 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:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
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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:
■ a. Removing Airworthiness Directive
2023–12–17, Amendment 39–22475 (88
FR 42604, July 3, 2023); and
■ b. Adding the following new
airworthiness directive:
■
2024–08–07 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.:
Amendment 39–22740; Docket No.
FAA–2024–0045; Project Identifier
MCAI–2023–01088–A.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective June 3, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2023–12–17,
Amendment 39–22475 (88 FR 42604, July 3,
2023) (AD 2023–12–17).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.
Model PC–12, PC–12/45, PC–12/47, and PC–
12/47E airplanes, all serial numbers,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 3211, Main Landing Gear Attach
Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a revision to the
airworthiness limitations section (ALS) of the
existing aircraft maintenance manual (AMM)
introducing new and more restrictive
instructions and maintenance tasks as
specified in the component limitations
section, which include repetitive eddy
current inspections for cracks in the main
landing gear yoke fitting. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address failure of certain parts,
which could result in asymmetric main
landing gear failure that could lead to loss of
airplane control during take-off, landing, and
taxiing operations.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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Cost per
product
Parts cost
Sfmt 4700
$0
$85
Cost on U.S.
operators
$87,550
(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–
0184, dated October 19, 2023 (EASA AD
2023–0184).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023–0184
(1) Where EASA AD 2023–0184 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) This AD does not adopt the
requirements specified in paragraphs (1), (2),
(4), and (5) of EASA AD 2023–0184.
(3) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023–
0184 specifies ‘‘Within 12 months after the
effective date of this AD, revise the AMP,’’
replace that text with ‘‘Within 30 days after
the effective date of this AD, revise the
airworthiness limitations section of your
existing airplane maintenance manual or
instructions for continued airworthiness and
your existing approved maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable.’’
(4) The initial compliance time for doing
the tasks specified in paragraph (3) of EASA
AD 2023–0184 is on or before the applicable
‘‘limitations’’ and ‘‘associated thresholds’’ as
incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023–0184 or
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD, whichever occurs later.
(5) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’
section of EASA AD 2023–0184.
(i) Provisions for Alternative Actions and
Intervals
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
2023–0184.
(j) 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 International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (k) of this AD or email to: 9-AVSAIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov. If mailing
information, also submit information by
email. Before using any approved AMOC,
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Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 83 / Monday, April 29, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office/
certificate holding district office.
(k) Additional Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (816) 329–
4059; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov.
(l) 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) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2023–0184, dated October 19,
2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023–0184, 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 this EASA AD
on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this material 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 April 17, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–09084 Filed 4–26–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2023–1820; Project
Identifier AD–2023–00510–P; Amendment
39–22721; AD 2024–07–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Hamilton
Sundstrand Corporation Propellers
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
(Hamilton Sundstrand) Model 14SF–7,
14SF–15, and 14SF–23 propellers. This
AD was prompted by a report of an
SUMMARY:
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auxiliary motor and pump failing to
feather a propeller in flight. This AD
requires replacing a certain auxiliary
motor and pump. This AD also prohibits
installation of a certain auxiliary motor
and pump. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective June 3, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of June 3, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2023–1820; 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 service information identified
in this final rule, contact Hamilton
Sundstrand, One Hamilton Road,
Windsor Locks, CT 06096–1010, phone:
(877) 808–7575; email: CRC@
collins.com.
• You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety
Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110. It is also
available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2023–1820.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Isabel Saltzman, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue,
College Park, GA 30337; phone: (781)
238–7649; email: 9-AVS-AIR-BACOCOS@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
magnets in the auxiliary motor and
pump that were de-bonded due to
corrosion at the magnet and housing
interface. The de-bonded motor magnets
prevented motor rotation. Hamilton
Sundstrand Model 14SF–7, 14SF–15,
and 14SF–23 propellers use the same
auxiliary motor and pump. These
propellers are installed on, but not
limited to, De Havilland Aircraft of
Canada Limited (Type Certificate
previously held by Bombardier Inc.)
Model DHC–8–100 series, DHC–8–200
series, and DHC–8–300 series airplanes.
This condition, if not addressed, could
result in reduced controllability of the
aircraft and consequent loss of control
of the aircraft.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require the removal from service of an
auxiliary motor and pump having part
number (P/N) 782655–3 (Aerocontrolex
P/N 4122–006009) and replacement
with an auxiliary motor and pump
having P/N 782655–4 (Aerocontrolex P/
N 4122–056000). In the NPRM, the FAA
also proposed to prohibit the
installation of an auxiliary motor and
pump having P/N 782655–3
(Aerocontrolex P/N 4122–006009) on
any propeller. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
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 Hamilton Sundstrand
Corporation (Hamilton Sundstrand)
Model 14SF–7, 14SF–15, and 14SF–23
propellers. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on September 7, 2023
(88 FR 61480). The NPRM was
prompted by a report of an auxiliary
motor and pump installed on a nonHamilton Sundstrand propeller failing
to feather the propeller in flight through
either the primary or the backup means.
The failure was caused by motor
Two commenters, Collins Aerospace
and an individual, observed that the use
of the phrase ‘‘any propeller’’ in the
NPRM causes confusion. The
commenters noted that the phrase ‘‘any
propeller’’ appears three times in the
subject NPRM. Collins Aerospace stated
that this use of ‘‘any propeller’’ language
has caused some confusion related to
AD 2023–16–06 [Amendment 39–22525
(88 FR 63513, September 15, 2023)]. An
individual also observed that the use of
the word ‘‘also’’ in the sentence, ‘‘This
AD also prohibits installation of a
certain auxiliary motor and pump on
any propeller,’’ in the Summary section
PO 00000
Frm 00027
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from
three commenters. The commenters
were Collins Aerospace, Sierra Nevada
Corporation, and an individual. Sierra
Nevada Corporation noted that the AD
does not apply to its fleet and had no
objection to the NPRM. Two
commenters, Collins Aerospace and an
individual, recommended certain
changes. The following presents the
comments received on the NPRM and
the FAA’s response.
Request To Clarify the Use of ‘‘Any
Propeller’’ in the NPRM
E:\FR\FM\29APR1.SGM
29APR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 83 (Monday, April 29, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 33206-33209]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-09084]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2024-0045; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-01088-A;
Amendment 39-22740; AD 2024-08-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023-12-
17, which applied to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC-12, PC-
12/45,
[[Page 33207]]
PC-12/47, and PC-12/47E airplanes. AD 2023-12-17 required revising the
airworthiness limitation section (ALS) of the existing aircraft
maintenance manual (AMM) or Instructions for Continued Airworthiness
(ICA) for your airplane by introducing new and more restrictive
instructions and maintenance tasks as specified in the component
limitations section, which includes repetitive inspections for cracks
in the lower main spar connection of the horizontal stabilizer. Since
the FAA issued AD 2023-12-17, the FAA has determined that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. This AD requires
revising the ALS of your existing AMM or ICA and your existing approved
maintenance or inspection program, 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 June 3, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of June 3,
2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2024-0045; 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 EASA material, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email:
[email protected]; website: easa.europa.eu. You may find this material
on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
You may view this material 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. It is also available at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2024-0045.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590;
phone: (816) 329-4059; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2023-12-17, Amendment 39-22475 (88 FR
42604, July 3, 2023) (AD 2023-12-17). AD 2023-12-17 applied to Pilatus
Model PC-12, PC-12/45, PC-12/47, and PC-12/47E airplanes. AD 2023-12-17
required incorporating new revisions to the ALS of the existing AMM or
ICA for your airplane to establish new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations that include repetitive inspections for
cracks in the lower main spar connection of the horizontal stabilizer.
The FAA issued AD 2023-12-17 to address cracks in the lower main spar
connection of the horizontal stabilizer and failure of certain parts,
which could result in loss of airplane control.
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 2, 2024 (89
FR 7297). The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2023-0184, dated October 19,
2023 (EASA AD 2023-0184) (also referred to as the MCAI), issued by
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union. The MCAI states that new or more restrictive tasks and
limitations have been developed. These new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations include repetitive eddy current inspections
for cracks in the main landing gear yoke fitting.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2024-0045.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require revising the ALS of your
existing AMM or ICA and your existing approved maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, as specified in EASA AD 2023-0184.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of certain parts, which
could result in asymmetric main landing gear failure that could lead to
loss of airplane control during take-off, landing, and taxiing
operations. Additionally, the actions required to address the unsafe
condition in AD 2023-12-17 are included in ``the applicable ALS,'' as
defined in EASA AD 2023-0184.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from two anonymous commenters, an
individual, and the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA).
All commenters supported the NPRM without change.
Conclusion
These products have been approved by the aviation authority of
another country and are approved for operation in the United States.
Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design
Authority, it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in
the MCAI referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comments received, and determined that air safety
requires adopting the AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023-0184 requires certain actions and associated
thresholds and intervals, including life limits and maintenance tasks.
EASA AD 2023-0184 also requires doing corrective actions if any
discrepancy (as defined in ``the applicable ALS'' as defined in EASA AD
2023-0184) is found during accomplishment of any task required by
paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2023-0184 and revising the aircraft
maintenance program (AMP) by incorporating the limitations, tasks, and
associated thresholds and intervals described in ``the applicable ALS''
as defined in EASA AD 2023-0184. 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.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI
Paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2023-0184 requires replacing each
component before exceeding the applicable life limit and within the
identified thresholds and intervals accomplishing all applicable
maintenance tasks as specified in the applicable ALS for that airplane.
Paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023-0184 requires corrective actions in
accordance with the applicable Pilatus maintenance documentation or
contacting Pilatus for approved instructions and accomplishing those
instructions accordingly. Paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2023-0184 provides
credit for performing actions in accordance with previous revisions of
the Pilatus AMM. Paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2023-0184 explains that after
revision of the AMP, it is not necessary to record accomplishment of
individual actions for demonstration of AD compliance. This AD does not
require compliance
[[Page 33208]]
with paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (5) of EASA AD 2023-0184.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 1,030 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revise the ALS........................ 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $87,550
hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
The FAA has determined that 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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2023-12-17, Amendment 39-22475 (88
FR 42604, July 3, 2023); and
0
b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive:
2024-08-07 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Amendment 39-22740; Docket No.
FAA-2024-0045; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-01088-A.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective June 3, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2023-12-17, Amendment 39-22475 (88 FR 42604,
July 3, 2023) (AD 2023-12-17).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-12, PC-12/45,
PC-12/47, and PC-12/47E airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated
in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 3211, Main Landing
Gear Attach Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a revision to the airworthiness
limitations section (ALS) of the existing aircraft maintenance
manual (AMM) introducing new and more restrictive instructions and
maintenance tasks as specified in the component limitations section,
which include repetitive eddy current inspections for cracks in the
main landing gear yoke fitting. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address failure of certain parts, which could result in asymmetric
main landing gear failure that could lead to loss of airplane
control during take-off, landing, and taxiing operations.
(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
2023-0184, dated October 19, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0184).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023-0184
(1) Where EASA AD 2023-0184 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) This AD does not adopt the requirements specified in
paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (5) of EASA AD 2023-0184.
(3) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0184 specifies ``Within
12 months after the effective date of this AD, revise the AMP,''
replace that text with ``Within 30 days after the effective date of
this AD, revise the airworthiness limitations section of your
existing airplane maintenance manual or instructions for continued
airworthiness and your existing approved maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable.''
(4) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0184 is on or before the applicable
``limitations'' and ``associated thresholds'' as incorporated by the
requirements of paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0184 or within 30 days
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
(5) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2023-0184.
(i) Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals
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 2023-0184.
(j) 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 International Validation Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD or
email to: [email protected]. If mailing information, also
submit information by email. Before using any approved AMOC,
[[Page 33209]]
notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office/
certificate holding district office.
(k) Additional Information
For more information about this AD, contact Doug Rudolph,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (816) 329-4059; email:
[email protected].
(l) 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) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023-0184,
dated October 19, 2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023-0184, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email:
[email protected]; website: easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA
AD on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this material 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 [email protected].
Issued on April 17, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-09084 Filed 4-26-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
