Federal Aviation Administration 2013 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

This rule establishes, amends, suspends, or revokes Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) and associated Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures for operations at certain airports. These regulatory actions are needed because of the adoption of new or revised criteria, or because of changes occurring in the National Airspace System, such as the commissioning of new navigational facilities, adding new obstacles, or changing air traffic requirements. These changes are designed to provide safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace and to promote safe flight operations under instrument flight rules at the affected airports.

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval to renew an information collection. The ``Aging Aircraft Program (Widespread Fatigue Damage)'' final rule (75 FR 69745) amended FAA regulations pertaining to certification and operation of transport category airplanes to preclude widespread fatigue damage in those airplanes.

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval to renew an information collection. The Federal Register Notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on the following collection of information was published on April 19, 2013, vol. 78, no. 76, page 23626. The rule ``Automatic Dependent SurveillanceBroadcast (ADS-B) Equipage Mandate To Support Air Traffic Control Service'' (75 FR 30160) contains performance requirements for certain equipment on aircraft operating in specified classes of airspace in the U.S. National Airspace System.

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval to renew an information collection. The Federal Register Notice with a 60-day comment period soliciting comments on the following collection of information was published on April 19, 2013, vol. 78, no. 76, pages 23628-23629. Wildlife strike data are collected to develop standards and monitor hazards to aviation.

This action expands the restricted airspace at Lake George, FL, and Pinecastle, FL, providing additional restricted airspace needed to contain airborne laser operations and other hazardous activities. The changes allow more realistic training in current tactics to be conducted at the range.

This action proposes to establish Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Metropolitan Oakland International Airport, Oakland, CA. Controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate aircraft using the Area Navigation (RNAV) Global Positioning System (GPS) standard instrument approach procedures at the airport. This action would also modify Class E surface airspace designated as an extension to Class C airspace by removing the navigation aids from the airspace designation. The FAA is proposing this action to enhance the safety and management of aircraft operations at the airport.

This action amends the operating regulations for flight data recorders by correcting errors in recording rates in three different appendices. These errors create requirements that could not be met by certain airplanes without extensive modification, which was not intended when the requirements were adopted. The corrected recording rates are as intended when the applicable flight data recorder parameter requirements were adopted, but which have been omitted from the current publication of the regulatory text.

We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, D, AS355E, F, F1, F2, and N helicopters. The existing AD requires inspecting to determine whether a cross-member is installed at station X 2165 and doublers at X 2325 and Y 269, and installing them if they are missing. Since we issued that AD, we discovered that the applicability of the AD should be limited to those helicopters with collective-to-yaw control coupling. We also sought to revise the inspection of the tail rotor control rigging to clarify the procedures. This proposed AD would retain the requirements in the existing AD with the mentioned clarifications but would supersede it to include only those helicopters with collective-to-yaw control coupling. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to prevent reduced yaw control and subsequent loss of helicopter control.

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (Eurocopter) Model EC135 P1, EC135 P2, EC135 P2+, EC135 T1, EC135 T2, and EC135 T2+ helicopters. This proposed AD would require analyzing the main gearbox (MGB) oil for indications of metal chips or pieces, reviewing the MGB log or equivalent record, and inspecting certain teeth in the MGB after two chip indications. This proposed AD is prompted by a partial tooth rupture found in an MGB that was returned to the manufacturer for repairs. The proposed actions are intended to detect wear in the MGB that could lead to a gear tooth rupture, failure of the MGB, loss of power to the main rotor, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes equipped with Rolls-Royce engines. The existing AD currently requires repetitive inspections to detect cracks of the outer V-blades of the thrust reverser, and corrective action if necessary. The existing AD also provides for optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Since we issued that AD, we have received reports of cracked outer V-blade fittings at the hinge beam end of Rolls-Royce engine thrust reversers, on airplanes on which the optional terminating action was done. This proposed AD would add, for airplanes on which the optional terminating action is done, repetitive inspections for cracking in the outer V-blade fittings of the hinge beam and latch beam ends of each thrust reverser half, and replacement of an affected thrust reverser half if necessary. This proposed AD would also add airplanes to the applicability. We are proposing this AD to prevent separation of a thrust reverser from the airplane during normal reverse thrust or during a refused takeoff, which could result in unexpected thrust asymmetry and a possible runway excursion.

We are revising an earlier notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that proposed to issue an airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with a certain wire strike protection system (WSPS) top cable cutter assembly installed. The existing NPRM proposes to require reworking or replacing the top cable cutter assembly to increase clearance between the WSPS and the main rotor (M/R) blades. The NPRM was prompted by a report of in-flight contact between the top cable-cutter assembly and two M/R blades. This action revises the proposals in the NPRM by requiring that the reworked or replaced part be marked with ``BT 139-126 Rev./'' or ``FAA'' at the end of the part number to reflect the field modification. Since these actions impose an additional burden over that proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes.

We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all Dassault Aviation Model FALCON 7X airplanes. The existing AD currently requires adding an automatic reversion logic and a means for the pilot to override pitch trim control normal modes, and installing placards in the cockpit; replacing the frame of the emergency switch box; replacing certain horizontal stabilizer electronic control units (HSECU); operating the airplane according to the limitations and procedures in the airplane flight manual (AFM); revising the Limitations section of the AFM; and revising the maintenance program to incorporate a certain maintenance planning document (MPD) task. Since we issued that AD, Dassault Aviation has developed a modification of the fly-by-wire (FBW) standard; changed the AFM to incorporate changes resulting from the FBW modification; and revised the airplane maintenance manual (AMM) to incorporate repetitive operational tests of the electric motors reversion relays and trim emergency command of the horizontal stabilizer trim system (HSTS). Once incorporated, these actions allow restoration of the originally certified minimum equipment list items. This proposed AD would retain certain requirements of the previous AD; would require modifying the FBW standard; operating the airplane according to the limitations and procedures in an approved AFM; and operational testing of the electric motors reversion relays and trim emergency command of the HSTS, and repairs if necessary. We are proposing this AD to prevent an uncontrolled pitch trim runaway, which could result in loss of control of the airplane.

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of certain sliding windows that were difficult to operate after landing. This proposed AD would require a detailed inspection to identify part numbers of sliding windows and sliding window seals, and modification if necessary. This proposed AD also includes an optional replacement. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct incorrect seals, which could lead to the functional loss of the sliding window as an exit, possibly preventing the flightcrew from safely evacuating the airplane during an emergency.

This notice contains a summary of a petition seeking relief from specified requirements of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR). The purpose of this notice is to improve the public's awareness of, and participation in, this aspect of the FAA's regulatory activities. Neither publication of this notice nor the inclusion or omission of information in the summary is intended to affect the legal status of the petition or its final disposition.

We propose to supersede three existing airworthiness directives (ADs) that apply to The Boeing Company Model 757-200, - 200PF, and -200CB series airplanes. The existing ADs currently require repetitive inspections and audible tap tests of the upper and lower skins of the trailing edge wedges on certain slats, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. Since we issued these ADs, we have received reports of slats disbonding on airplanes on which the terminating actions of the existing ADs were completed and also reports of slats disbonding on airplanes outside of the applicability of the existing ADs. This proposed AD would require a determination of the type of trailing edge wedges of the leading edge slats, repetitive inspections on certain trailing edge wedges for areas of skin-to-core disbonding, and corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD would also provide an optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This AD would revise the applicability of the existing ADs to include additional airplanes. We are proposing this AD to prevent delamination of the trailing edge wedge of the leading edge slats, possible loss of pieces of the trailing edge wedge assembly during flight, reduction of the reduced maneuver and stall margins, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2010-14-14 that applies to certain Embraer S.A. Model ERJ 170 and ERJ 190 airplanes. AD 2010-14-14 currently requires, for certain airplanes, repetitively replacing the low-stage check valve and associated seals of the right hand (RH) engine's engine bleed system with a new check valve and new seals, replacing the low pressure check valves (LPCVs), and revising the maintenance program. For certain other airplanes, AD 2010-14-14 requires replacing a certain low-stage check valve with an improved low-stage check valve. For certain airplanes, this new AD adds replacing certain LPCVs of the left hand (LH) and RH engines, which would be an option for other airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of uncommanded engine shutdowns on both Model ERJ 170 and ERJ 190 airplanes due to excessive wear and failure of LPCVs having certain part numbers. We are issuing this AD to prevent the possibility of a dual engine in-flight shutdown due to LPCV failure.

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a determination that certain special washers used in the retraction jack anchorage fitting bearing installation in the main landing gear (MLG) were incorrectly manufactured. This proposed AD would require an inspection of the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) MLG retraction jack anchorage fitting bearing assemblies to verify that the special washer is seated correctly, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct installation of incorrectly manufactured special washers, which could lead to a local stress concentration resulting in possible reduction of the fatigue life of the jack fitting, and consequent reduction of the structural integrity of the affected MLG.

The FAA is issuing this notice to advise the public that a Written Re-Evaluation and Record of Decision (ROD) for an Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared for Theodore Francis Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island.

We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for various model helicopters with certain part-numbered and serial- numbered Goodrich externally-mounted hoists installed. This AD requires performing a cable conditioning lift and a load inspection test, deactivating or replacing any hoist that fails the load inspection test, and recording the results of the load inspection test. This AD is prompted by a report of a failure of the overload clutch resulting in an in-flight failure of a hoist containing a dummy load during a maintenance flight. These actions are intended to detect conditions that may result in failure of the hoist and injury to persons being lifted.

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of chafing found on the main landing gear (MLG) yoke. The chafing was attributed to contact between the nacelle fire detection wires and the MLG yoke. This AD requires inspections of the nacelle fire detection wires and the MLG yoke for damage; replacing nacelle fire detection wires, if necessary; repairing the MLG yoke, if necessary; and installing brackets and associated hardware to secure the fire detection wires. We are issuing this AD to prevent chafing between the nacelle fire detection wires and the MLG yoke. Chafing could lead to cracking and subsequent failure of the MLG yoke, which could adversely affect the safe landing of the airplane. In addition, chafing of the nacelle fire detection wires could cause them to fail and prevent the detection of a fire in the nacelle assembly.

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval to renew an information collection. The FAA Aviation Research and Development Grants Program establishes uniform policies and procedures for the award and administration of research grants to colleges, universities, not for profit organizations, and profit organizations for security research. The collection of data is required from prospective grantees in order to adhere to applicable statutes and OMB circulars.

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval for to renew an information collection. The collection involves requirements for operators and repair stations to report any malfunctions and defects to the Administrator.

This action amends Class E Airspace in the Live Oak, FL area, as new Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) have been developed at Suwannee County Airport. Airspace reconfiguration is necessary for the continued safety and management of instrument flight rules (IFR) operations within the Live Oak, FL, airspace area. This action also updates the geographic coordinates of Suwannee Hospital Emergency Heliport and Suwannee County Airport.

We are superseding AD 2000-04-01 that applies to certain Cessna Aircraft Company (Cessna) Models 172R, 172S, 182S, 182T, T182T, 206H, and T206H airplanes. AD 2000-04-01 currently requires an inspection of the engine oil pressure switch and, if applicable, replacement of the engine oil pressure switch. This AD increases the applicability of the AD, places a life-limit of 3,000 hours time-in- service on the engine oil pressure switch, and requires replacement when the engine oil pressure switch reaches its life limit. This AD was prompted by new reports of internal failure of the engine oil pressure switch, which could result in complete loss of engine oil with consequent partial or complete loss of engine power or fire. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (BHTC) Model 407 helicopters with certain tailboom assemblies installed. This AD requires, at specified intervals, inspecting the tailboom assembly for a crack, loose rivet, or other damage. This AD was prompted by a stress analysis of the tailboom skin that revealed that high-stress-concentration areas are susceptible to skin cracking. This condition, if not detected, could result in a crack in the tailboom assembly, failure of the tailboom, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.