Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca S.A.), 92789-92792 [2024-27641]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 227 / Monday, November 25, 2024 / Rules and Regulations acknowledges that ‘‘smoke’’ was erroneously included in this definition, as there are no corrections to reference day conditions required for smoke measurements. However, regarding nvPM emissions, the FAA notes that corrections to reference day conditions are required, and that the measurement instrumentation corrects to reference day corrections. For clarity, a commenter suggested that the internal references in § 34.73(c)(1) include a greater level of detail, specifically: • Paragraph (c)(1)(i)(B), when referencing ‘‘paragraph (c)(1),’’ should reference ‘‘paragraph (c)(1)(i)(A).’’ • Paragraph (c)(1)(ii)(B), when referencing ‘‘paragraph (c)(1),’’ should reference ‘‘paragraph (c)(1)(ii)(A).’’ • Paragraph (c)(1)(ii)(C), when referencing ‘‘paragraph (c)(1),’’ should reference ‘‘paragraph (c)(1)(ii)(B).’’ • Paragraph (c)(1)(iii)(B), when referencing ‘‘paragraph (c)(1),’’ should reference ‘‘paragraph (c)(1)(iii)(A).’’ The FAA thanks this commentor for its detailed and accurate suggestions. The FAA is declining to make these suggestions at this time, as such changes are not necessary. G. Average of One A commenter noted that 14 CFR 37.73(c)(1)(iii)(D) requires an ‘‘average’’ of engines tested, but ‘‘[w]hat is missing is saying that this average has to be done if several engines have been tested.’’ The FAA concludes that adding additional text to § 34.73(c)(1)(iii)(D) is not necessary as taking the average of a single engine does not change the results of the calculations. H. Comments in Support B. Comments Submitted to the Docket Comments received may be viewed by going to www.regulations.gov and following the online instructions to search the docket number for this action. Anyone is able to search the electronic form of all comments received into any of the FAA’s dockets by the name of the individual submitting the comment (or signing the comment, if submitted on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). C. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act The Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) of 1996 requires FAA to comply with small entity requests for information or advice about compliance with statutes and regulations within its jurisdiction. A small entity with questions regarding this document may contact its local FAA official or the person listed under the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT heading at the beginning of the preamble. To find out more about SBREFA on the internet, visit www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/ rulemaking/sbre_act/. Issued under authority provided 49 U.S.C. 40101, et seq., in Washington, DC, on November 18, 2024. Brandon Roberts, Executive Director, Office of Rulemaking. [FR Doc. 2024–27390 Filed 11–22–24; 8:45 am] Finally, the FAA received positive feedback from multiple organizations. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Conclusion After consideration of the comments submitted in response to the final rule with request for comment, the FAA has determined that no further rulemaking action is necessary. Therefore, amendment 34–7 remains in effect. khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with RULES Copies may also be obtained by sending a request (identified by notice, amendment, or docket number of this rulemaking) to the Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Rulemaking, ARM–1, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591, or by calling (202) 267–9680. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 How To Obtain Additional Information [Docket No. FAA–2024–2537; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00631–E; Amendment 39–22892; AD 2024–24–02] A. Rulemaking Documents RIN 2120–AA64 An electronic copy of a rulemaking document may be obtained by using the internet— 1. Search the Federal eRulemaking Portal (www.regulations.gov); 2. Visit the FAA’s Regulations and Policies web page at www.faa.gov/ regulations_policies/ or 3. Access the Government Printing Office’s web page at www.gpo.gov/fdsys/. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:59 Nov 22, 2024 Jkt 265001 Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca S.A.) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 92789 The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran) Model ARRIUS 2F engines. This AD was prompted by a report of an uncommanded in-flight shut-down (IFSD) of a Safran Model ARRIUS 2F engine, followed by an investigation that revealed the IFSD was due to a missing lubricating and balancing groove on one of the bearings of the fuel control unit (FCU) fuel pump related to a non-conforming manufacturing process. This AD requires removal of the affected fuel pump from service and replacement with a serviceable part, 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 December 10, 2024. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 10, 2024. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by January 9, 2025. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–2537; 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 street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For EASA material identified in this AD, contact EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 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, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\25NOR1.SGM 25NOR1 92790 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 227 / Monday, November 25, 2024 / Rules and Regulations 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– 2024–2537. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Bergeron, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (860) 386–1805; email: david.j.bergeron@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with RULES Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2024–2537; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00631–E’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this final rule because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this final rule. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to David Bergeron, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:59 Nov 22, 2024 Jkt 265001 Background EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD 2024–0202–E, dated October 22, 2024 (EASA AD 2024–0202–E) (also referred to as the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition on all Safran Model ARRIUS 2F engines. The MCAI states that an occurrence was reported of an uncommanded IFSD of an ARRIUS 2F engine, followed by a hard landing, and that the following investigation revealed that the IFSD was caused by a missing lubricating and balancing groove on one of the bearings of the FCU fuel pump due to a non-conforming manufacturing process. A subsequent quality analysis identified a population of FCUs possibly affected by the non-conforming manufacturing process. This condition, if not corrected, could result in a significant reduction of the control of a single engine helicopter. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–2537. Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2024– 0202–E, which specifies procedures for replacement of the affected parts with serviceable parts. The MCAI also specifies prohibiting installation of affected parts on an engine. 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. FAA’s Determination 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 is issuing this AD after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the material already described, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Explanation of Required Compliance Information In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD process, the FAA developed a process to PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 use some civil aviation authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has since coordinated with other manufacturers and CAAs to use this process. As a result, EASA AD 2024–0202–E will be incorporated by reference in this final rule. This AD, therefore, requires compliance with EASA AD 2024–0202–E in its entirety through that incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section in the EASA AD does not mean that operators need comply only with that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to ‘‘all required actions and compliance times,’’ compliance with this AD requirement is not limited to the section titled ‘‘Required Action(s) and Compliance Time(s)’’ in EASA AD 2024–0202–E. Service information required by the EASA AD for compliance is available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2024–2537. Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective Date Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under this section, an agency, upon finding good cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, upon a finding of good cause. An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies forgoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because missing lubricating and balancing grooves on the bearings of the FCU fuel pump, if not corrected, could result in an uncommanded IFSD, and a significant reduction of the control of a single engine helicopter. The FAA has determined that because this condition can occur without warning, these FCUs need to be removed from service within 15 flight hours or 30 days, whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD. These compliance times are shorter than the time necessary for the public to comment and for publication E:\FR\FM\25NOR1.SGM 25NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 227 / Monday, November 25, 2024 / Rules and Regulations of the final rule. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b). In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forgo notice and comment. Regulatory Flexibility Act The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined that it has good 92791 cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 5 engines installed on helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Replace the FCU ............................................ 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. khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with RULES 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:59 Nov 22, 2024 Jkt 265001 Parts cost 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: ■ 2024–24–02 Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca S.A.): Amendment 39– 22892; Docket No. FAA–2024–2537; Project Identifier MCAI–2024–00631–E. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 10, 2024. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (type certificate previously held by Turbomeca S.A.) Model ARRIUS 2F engines, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Emergency AD 2024–0202–E, dated October 22, 2024 (EASA AD 2024–0202–E). (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7314, Engine Fuel Pump. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of an uncommanded in-flight shut-down (IFSD) of a Safran Model ARRIUS 2F engine, followed by an investigation that revealed the IFSD was due to a missing lubricating and balancing groove on one of the bearings of the fuel control unit (FCU) fuel pump related to a non-conforming manufacturing process. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and correct missing lubricating and balancing PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 $20,650 Cost per product $20,735 Cost on U.S. operators $103,675 grooves on the bearings of the FCU fuel pump. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in an uncommanded IFSD and a significant reduction of the control of a single engine 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: Do all required actions within the compliance times specified in, and in accordance with EASA AD 2024–0202–E. (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2024–0202–E (1) Where EASA AD 2024–0202–E requires compliance from its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2024–0202–E. (3) Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2024–0202–E specifies to return the FCU to a Repair Center approved by Safran Helicopter Engines, this AD requires removing those parts from service. (i) No Reporting Requirement Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2024–0202–E specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD and email to: 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. E:\FR\FM\25NOR1.SGM 25NOR1 92792 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 227 / Monday, November 25, 2024 / Rules and Regulations (k) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact David Bergeron, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (860) 386– 1805; email: david.j.bergeron@faa.gov. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Emergency AD 2024–0202–E, dated October 22, 2024. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA material identified in this AD, 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 (4) You may view this material at the FAA, 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-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. Issued on November 20, 2024. Steven W. Thompson, Acting Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2024–27641 Filed 11–21–24; 11:15 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2024–2524; Airspace Docket No. 24–AWA–3] RIN 2120–AA66 Amendment of Class C Airspace; Austin, TX Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This action amends the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, TX, Class C airspace description by updating the airport reference point (ARP) geographic coordinates for the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport to match the FAA’s National Airspace System Resource (NASR) database. Additionally, minor editorial changes are made to the airspace description khammond on DSK9W7S144PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:59 Nov 22, 2024 Jkt 265001 header information format. This action does not change the boundaries, altitudes, or operating requirements of the Class C airspace area. DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC, February 20, 2025. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference action under 1 CFR part 51, subject to the annual revision of FAA Order JO 7400.11 and publication of conforming amendments. ADDRESSES: A copy of this final rule and all background material may be viewed online at www.regulations.gov using the FAA Docket number. Electronic retrieval help and guidelines are available on the website. It is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. FAA Order JO 7400.11J, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ publications/. You may also contact the Rules and Regulations Group, Policy Directorate, Federal Aviation Administration, 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington DC 20597; telephone: (202) 267–8783. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Colby Abbott, Rules and Regulations Group, Policy Directorate, Federal Aviation Administration, 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20597; telephone: (202) 267–8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. 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. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of the airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it updates the information in the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, TX, Class C airspace description to match the FAA NASR database. History During a recent review of the AustinBergstrom International Airport, TX, Class C airspace description, the FAA identified that the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport ARP geographic coordinates were incorrect. This action updates the airport ARP geographic coordinates to match the FAA NASR PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 database information and makes minor editorial changes to the airspace description header format. There are no changes to the boundaries, altitudes, or operating requirements of the Class C airspace area resulting from this action. Incorporation by Reference Class C airspace areas are published in paragraph 4000 of FAA Order JO 7400.11, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1 on an annual basis. This document amends the current version of that order, FAA Order JO 7400.11J, dated July 31, 2024, and effective September 15, 2024. FAA Order JO 7400.11J is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section of this document. These amendments will be published in the next update to FAA Order JO 7400.11. FAA Order JO 7400.11J lists Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas, air traffic service routes, and reporting points. The Rule This action amends 14 CFR part 71 by updating the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, TX, Class C airspace description. The airport ARP geographic coordinates are updated from ‘‘lat. 30°11′41″ N, long. 97°40′12″ W’’ to ‘‘lat. 30°11′40″ N, long. 97°40′12″ W’’ to match the FAA NASR database information. Additionally, the airport name is removed from the first line in the text header of the description and replaced by the city location of the airport to follow the current formatting standard. This action consists of administrative changes only and does not affect the boundaries, altitudes, or operating requirements of the Class C airspace. Therefore, notice and public procedure under 5 U.S.C. 553(b) is unnecessary. Regulatory Notices and Analyses The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an established body of technical regulations for which frequent and routine amendments are necessary to keep them operationally current. It, therefore: (1) is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. Since this is a routine matter that only affects air traffic procedures and air navigation, it is certified that this rule, when promulgated, does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial E:\FR\FM\25NOR1.SGM 25NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 227 (Monday, November 25, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 92789-92792]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-27641]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2024-2537; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00631-E; 
Amendment 39-22892; AD 2024-24-02]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type 
Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca S.A.)

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran) Model ARRIUS 2F engines. This 
AD was prompted by a report of an uncommanded in-flight shut-down 
(IFSD) of a Safran Model ARRIUS 2F engine, followed by an investigation 
that revealed the IFSD was due to a missing lubricating and balancing 
groove on one of the bearings of the fuel control unit (FCU) fuel pump 
related to a non-conforming manufacturing process. This AD requires 
removal of the affected fuel pump from service and replacement with a 
serviceable part, 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 December 10, 2024.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 10, 
2024.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by January 9, 2025.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2024-2537; 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 
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For EASA material identified in this AD, 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, Operational Safety 
Branch, 1200

[[Page 92790]]

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-2024-2537.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Bergeron, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; 
phone: (860) 386-1805; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments 
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under 
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2024-2537; Project Identifier MCAI-
2024-00631-E'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this final rule because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The 
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this final rule.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to David 
Bergeron, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 
410, Westbury, NY 11590. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is 
not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket 
for this rulemaking.

Background

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD 2024-0202-E, dated October 
22, 2024 (EASA AD 2024-0202-E) (also referred to as the MCAI), to 
correct an unsafe condition on all Safran Model ARRIUS 2F engines. The 
MCAI states that an occurrence was reported of an uncommanded IFSD of 
an ARRIUS 2F engine, followed by a hard landing, and that the following 
investigation revealed that the IFSD was caused by a missing 
lubricating and balancing groove on one of the bearings of the FCU fuel 
pump due to a non-conforming manufacturing process. A subsequent 
quality analysis identified a population of FCUs possibly affected by 
the non-conforming manufacturing process. This condition, if not 
corrected, could result in a significant reduction of the control of a 
single engine helicopter.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2024-2537.

Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2024-0202-E, which specifies procedures 
for replacement of the affected parts with serviceable parts. The MCAI 
also specifies prohibiting installation of affected parts on an engine. 
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.

FAA's Determination

    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 is issuing this AD after determining 
that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or 
develop on other products of the same type design.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the 
material already described, except for any differences identified as 
exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD.

Explanation of Required Compliance Information

    In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD 
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation 
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance 
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has since 
coordinated with other manufacturers and CAAs to use this process. As a 
result, EASA AD 2024-0202-E will be incorporated by reference in this 
final rule. This AD, therefore, requires compliance with EASA AD 2024-
0202-E in its entirety through that incorporation, except for any 
differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. 
Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular 
section in the EASA AD does not mean that operators need comply only 
with that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to 
``all required actions and compliance times,'' compliance with this AD 
requirement is not limited to the section titled ``Required Action(s) 
and Compliance Time(s)'' in EASA AD 2024-0202-E. Service information 
required by the EASA AD for compliance is available at regulations.gov 
under Docket No. FAA-2024-2537.

Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective 
Date

    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and 
comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds 
that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to 
the public interest.'' Under this section, an agency, upon finding good 
cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking 
comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA 
authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, 
upon a finding of good cause.
    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to 
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public 
justifies forgoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule 
because missing lubricating and balancing grooves on the bearings of 
the FCU fuel pump, if not corrected, could result in an uncommanded 
IFSD, and a significant reduction of the control of a single engine 
helicopter. The FAA has determined that because this condition can 
occur without warning, these FCUs need to be removed from service 
within 15 flight hours or 30 days, whichever occurs first after the 
effective date of this AD. These compliance times are shorter than the 
time necessary for the public to comment and for publication

[[Page 92791]]

of the final rule. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public 
comment are impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant 
to 5 U.S.C. 553(b).
    In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 
U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, 
for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forgo notice and 
comment.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not 
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt 
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and 
comment, RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 5 engines installed on 
helicopters 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace the FCU.......................  1 work-hour x $85 per            $20,650         $20,735        $103,675
                                         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

    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

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:

2024-24-02 Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate 
Previously Held by Turbomeca S.A.): Amendment 39-22892; Docket No. 
FAA-2024-2537; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00631-E.

 (a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 10, 
2024.

 (b) Affected ADs

    None.

 (c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (type 
certificate previously held by Turbomeca S.A.) Model ARRIUS 2F 
engines, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA) Emergency AD 2024-0202-E, dated October 22, 2024 (EASA AD 
2024-0202-E).

 (d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7314, Engine Fuel 
Pump.

 (e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report of an uncommanded in-flight 
shut-down (IFSD) of a Safran Model ARRIUS 2F engine, followed by an 
investigation that revealed the IFSD was due to a missing 
lubricating and balancing groove on one of the bearings of the fuel 
control unit (FCU) fuel pump related to a non-conforming 
manufacturing process. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and 
correct missing lubricating and balancing grooves on the bearings of 
the FCU fuel pump. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could 
result in an uncommanded IFSD and a significant reduction of the 
control of a single engine 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: Do all 
required actions within the compliance times specified in, and in 
accordance with EASA AD 2024-0202-E.

 (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2024-0202-E

    (1) Where EASA AD 2024-0202-E requires compliance from its 
effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this 
AD.
    (2) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 
2024-0202-E.
    (3) Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2024-
0202-E specifies to return the FCU to a Repair Center approved by 
Safran Helicopter Engines, this AD requires removing those parts 
from service.

 (i) No Reporting Requirement

    Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2024-
0202-E specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, 
this AD does not include that requirement.

 (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send 
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of 
this AD and email 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.

[[Page 92792]]

 (k) Additional Information

    For more information about this AD, contact David Bergeron, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, 
Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (860) 386-1805; email: 
[email protected].

 (l) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions 
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Emergency AD 
2024-0202-E, dated October 22, 2024.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For EASA material identified in this AD, 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
    (4) You may view this material at the FAA, 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-locations or email [email protected].

    Issued on November 20, 2024.
Steven W. Thompson,
Acting Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-27641 Filed 11-21-24; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.