80_FR_22513 80 FR 22436 - Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Type Certificate Previously Held by Schweizer Aircraft Corporation)

80 FR 22436 - Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Type Certificate Previously Held by Schweizer Aircraft Corporation)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 77 (April 22, 2015)

Page Range22436-22438
FR Document2015-09098

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 269C, 269C-1, 269D, and TH-55A helicopters. This proposed AD would require repetitively inspecting and lubricating the tail rotor (T/R) driveshaft splined fittings. This proposed AD is prompted by a report that the T/R driveshaft can disconnect due to deterioration of the splined coupling. The proposed actions are intended to detect and prevent excessive wear of the splined coupling, which could lead to failure of the T/R driveshaft and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 77 (Wednesday, April 22, 2015) 
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 77 (Wednesday, April 22, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 22436-22438]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-09098]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-1008; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-064-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Type 
Certificate Previously Held by Schweizer Aircraft Corporation)

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 
269C, 269C-1, 269D, and TH-55A helicopters. This proposed AD would 
require repetitively inspecting and lubricating the tail rotor (T/R) 
driveshaft splined fittings. This proposed AD is prompted by a report 
that the T/R driveshaft can disconnect due to deterioration of the 
splined coupling. The proposed actions are intended to detect and 
prevent excessive wear of the splined coupling, which could lead to 
failure of the T/R driveshaft and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 22, 2015.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the economic 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in 
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service Engineering, 124 Quarry 
Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-Winged-S or 203-416-4299; 
email sikorskywcs@sikorsky.com. You may review the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest 
Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. It is 
also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-1008.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen Kowalski, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, New York Aircraft Certification Office, Engine & Propeller 
Directorate, 1600 Stewart Ave., suite 410, Westbury, New York 11590; 
telephone (516) 228-7327; email stephen.kowalski@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to 
the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might 
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To 
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters 
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed 
electronically, commenters should submit only one time.
    We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as 
a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel 
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we 
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for 
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has 
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. 
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.

Discussion

    We propose to adopt a new AD for Sikorsky Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 
269C, 269C-1, 269D, and TH-55A helicopters. This proposed AD would 
require a one-time inspection and lubrication of the T/R driveshaft 
splined fittings and replacing a splined fitting and the T/R driveshaft 
if the fitting has excessive wear. This proposed AD would also require 
repetitively inspecting the driveshaft for straightness, twists, and 
scratches, repetitively inspecting the internal coupling splines, 
internal stops, and coupling drive splines for wear, and repetitively 
correcting the torque of each main transmission aft pinion nut (pinion 
nut).
    This proposed AD is prompted by a report of excessive spline wear 
on the forward and aft T/R driveshaft splined fittings installed on 
Sikorsky Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 269C, 269C-1, 269D, and TH-55A 
helicopters. This abnormal spline wear can lead to the T/R driveshaft 
disconnecting. An investigation has determined that insufficient 
lubrication of the splined fittings can result in deterioration of the 
splined teeth and subsequent failure of the T/R driveshaft coupling. 
The proposed actions are intended to detect excessive wear of the 
splined coupling and prevent failure of the T/R driveshaft and 
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
    Sikorsky has developed a one-time inspection that requires 
cleaning, inspecting, and lubricating the driveshaft splines. Sikorsky 
has also developed a repetitive 100-hour time-in-service (TIS) 
requirement for inspecting the T/R driveshaft for straightness, twists, 
and scratches; each coupling and internal stop for wear; each coupling 
drive spline for wear; and each pinion nut for correct torque.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant 
information and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is 
likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type 
designs.

[[Page 22437]]

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Sikorsky 269 Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) B-299.1 for 
Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 269C, and TH-55A helicopters; 269C-1 ASB C1B-
036.1 for Model 269C-1 helicopters; and 269D ASB DB-041.1 for Model 
269D helicopters, each Revision 1 and dated February 24, 2012. Each ASB 
describes procedures for cleaning, inspecting, and lubricating the 
forward and aft T/R driveshaft splined fittings and returning to 
Sikorsky any parts that exceed wear limits. Each ASB also requires 
implementing a 100 hour TIS recurring inspection of the T/R driveshaft, 
coupling and internal stop, coupling drive splines, and the pinion nut 
by following the procedures in each model helicopter's Handbook of 
Maintenance Instructions. This service information 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 of this NPRM.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require, within 100 hours TIS, inspecting 
for wear and lubricating the forward and aft T/R driveshaft splines by 
following certain procedures in the Sikorsky ASBs for each model 
helicopter. If there is excessive wear of the T/R driveshaft splines, 
the proposed AD would require replacing the driveshaft fitting before 
further flight. If the helicopter has a T/R driveshaft grease fitting 
installed, the proposed AD would also require inspecting each grease 
fitting for certain conditions and replacing the grease fitting if 
necessary. The proposed AD would also require, at intervals not 
exceeding 100 hours TIS, inspecting the T/R driveshaft for 
straightness, twists, and scratches; inspecting each forward and aft T/
R driveshaft splines for wear; and correcting the torque of each pinion 
nut.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    The Sikorsky ASBs require returning any splined fittings that 
exceed wear limits to Sikorsky, while this proposed AD requires 
replacing those fittings and the T/R driveshaft.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 1,085 helicopters of 
U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs 
in order to comply with this AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per 
work-hour, inspecting and lubricating the T/R driveshaft splined 
fittings would require 1.8 hours, for a cost per helicopter of $153 and 
a total cost of $166,005 for the fleet. Inspecting the grease fittings 
would require 0.25 hour, for a cost of $21 per helicopter and a total 
cost of $22,785 for the fleet. Inspecting the driveshaft, fittings, 
internal stops, and drive spines would require 1.8 hours, for a cost 
per helicopter of $153 and a total cost of $166,005 for the fleet, per 
inspection cycle.
    If required, replacing the T/R driving spline and driveshaft would 
require 1.6 work-hours, and required parts would cost about $14,853, 
for a cost per helicopter of $14,989.
    If required, replacing a T/R driven spline and driveshaft would 
require 1.5 work-hours, and required parts would cost about $14,836, 
for a cost per helicopter of $14,964.
    If required, replacing a grease fitting would require about .25 
work-hour, and required parts would cost about $5, for a cost per 
helicopter of $26.

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.
    We are 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

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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, I certify this proposed regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that 
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
    4. 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.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
Reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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 (AD):

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Type Certificate Previously Held by 
Schweizer Aircraft Corporation) Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2015-
1008; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-064-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) 
Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 269C, 269C-1, 269D, and TH-55A 
helicopters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as insufficient lubrication 
of a tail rotor (T/R) driveshaft splined fitting. This condition 
could result in excessive wear of the T/R driveshaft splines, which 
could lead to failure of the T/R driveshaft and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

(c) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 22, 2015.

(d) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been 
accomplished prior to that time.

(e) Required Actions

    (1) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS):
    (i) Inspect each T/R driveshaft splined fitting for a crack, a 
break, excessive wear, galling, spalling, chipping, corrosion, heat 
discoloration, and distortion by following the

[[Page 22438]]

Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.B.(1) through 3.B.(2), of 
Sikorsky 269 Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) B-299.1 for Model 269A, 
269A-1, 269B, 269C, and TH-55A helicopters; 269C-1 ASB C1B-036.1 for 
Model 269C-1 helicopters; or 269D ASB DB-041.1 for Model 269D 
helicopters, each Revision 1 and dated February 24, 2012. If there 
is a crack, a break, excessive wear, galling, spalling, chipping, 
corrosion, heat discoloration, or distortion on any T/R driveshaft 
splined fitting, before further flight, replace the affected splined 
fitting and the T/R driveshaft.
    (ii) If installed, inspect each T/R driveshaft grease fitting 
for looseness, presence of a check ball inside each fitting, and for 
proper operation and seating of each check ball. If any grease 
fitting is loose, missing a check ball, fails to properly operate, 
or if a check ball fails to seat, before further flight, replace the 
grease fitting.
    (iii) Lubricate each driveshaft fitting by following the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.(6), of Sikorsky 269 ASB 
B-299.1 for Model 269A, 269A-1, 269B, 269C, and TH-55A helicopters; 
269C-1 ASB C1B-036.1 for Model 269C-1 helicopters; or 269D ASB DB-
041.1 for Model 269D helicopters, each Revision 1 and dated February 
24, 2012.
    (2) Within 100 hours TIS after the inspections required by 
paragraph (e)(1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not 
exceeding 100 hours TIS:
    (i) Remove the driveshaft from the gearbox and clean any grease 
from each end fitting.
    (ii) Inspect the driveshaft for straightness, a twist, and a 
scratch. If the driveshaft has any bends, twists, or scratches, 
before further flight, replace the driveshaft.
    (iii) Inspect the internal splines of each forward and aft 
fitting and each internal stop for wear. If there is any wear, 
before further flight, replace the fitting.
    (iv) Inspect the drive splines of each splined drive fitting for 
wear. If there is any wear, before further flight, replace the 
splined drive fitting.
    (v) Loosen the aft frame clamp and apply a torque of 750 to 
1,000 inch-pounds to each main transmission aft pinion nut.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC)

    (1) The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Stephen 
Kowalski, Aviation Safety Engineer, New York Aircraft Certification 
Office, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1600 Stewart Ave., suite 
410, Westbury, New York 11590; telephone (516) 228-7327; email 
stephen.kowalski@faa.gov.
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you 
notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, 
the manager of the local flight standards district office or 
certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft 
complying with this AD through an AMOC.

(g) Additional Information

    For service information identified in this AD, contact Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service Engineering, 124 Quarry Road, 
Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-Winged-S or 203-416-4299; email 
sikorskywcs@sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of information at 
the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 
Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6500: Tail Rotor 
Drive.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 14, 2015.
Lance T. Gant,
Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-09098 Filed 4-21-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13P-

22436 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 77 / Wednesday, April 22, 2015 / Proposed Rules SBA should collect to make a • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the concerning this proposed rulemaking. determination on the applicant’s ability ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 Before acting on this proposal, we will to fundraise. p.m., Monday through Friday, except consider all comments we receive on or Finally, in addition to the specific Federal holidays. before the closing date for comments. issues raised above, SBA invites We will consider comments filed after Examining the AD Docket comments on other aspects of the WBC the comment period has closed if it is program that the public believes should You may examine the AD docket on possible to do so without incurring be evaluated and revised where the Internet at http:// expense or delay. We may change this possible. We ask that you provide a brief www.regulations.gov or in person at the proposal in light of the comments we justification for any suggested changes. Docket Operations Office between 9 receive. a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Maria Contreras-Sweet, Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD Discussion Administrator. docket contains this proposed AD, the We propose to adopt a new AD for [FR Doc. 2015–09391 Filed 4–21–15; 8:45 am] economic evaluation, any comments Sikorsky Model 269A, 269A–1, 269B, BILLING CODE 8025–01–P received, and other information. The 269C, 269C–1, 269D, and TH–55A street address for the Docket Operations helicopters. This proposed AD would Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in require a one-time inspection and DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION the ADDRESSES section. Comments will lubrication of the T/R driveshaft splined be available in the AD docket shortly fittings and replacing a splined fitting Federal Aviation Administration after receipt. and the T/R driveshaft if the fitting has For service information identified in 14 CFR Part 39 excessive wear. This proposed AD this proposed AD, contact Sikorsky would also require repetitively [Docket No. FAA–2015–1008; Directorate Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service inspecting the driveshaft for Identifier 2013–SW–064–AD] Engineering, 124 Quarry Road, straightness, twists, and scratches, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800- RIN 2120–AA64 repetitively inspecting the internal Winged-S or 203–416–4299; email coupling splines, internal stops, and sikorskywcs@sikorsky.com. You may Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky coupling drive splines for wear, and review the referenced service Aircraft Corporation (Type Certificate repetitively correcting the torque of each information at the FAA, Office of the Previously Held by Schweizer Aircraft main transmission aft pinion nut Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, Corporation) (pinion nut). 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort AGENCY: Federal Aviation Worth, Texas 76137. It is also available This proposed AD is prompted by a Administration (FAA), DOT. on the Internet at http:// report of excessive spline wear on the www.regulations.gov by searching for forward and aft T/R driveshaft splined ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– fittings installed on Sikorsky Model (NPRM). 1008. 269A, 269A–1, 269B, 269C, 269C–1, SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new 269D, and TH–55A helicopters. This FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: airworthiness directive (AD) for abnormal spline wear can lead to the T/ Stephen Kowalski, Aviation Safety Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) R driveshaft disconnecting. An Engineer, New York Aircraft Model 269A, 269A–1, 269B, 269C, investigation has determined that Certification Office, Engine & Propeller 269C–1, 269D, and TH–55A helicopters. insufficient lubrication of the splined Directorate, 1600 Stewart Ave., suite This proposed AD would require fittings can result in deterioration of the 410, Westbury, New York 11590; repetitively inspecting and lubricating splined teeth and subsequent failure of telephone (516) 228–7327; email the tail rotor (T/R) driveshaft splined the T/R driveshaft coupling. The stephen.kowalski@faa.gov. fittings. This proposed AD is prompted proposed actions are intended to detect SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: excessive wear of the splined coupling by a report that the T/R driveshaft can disconnect due to deterioration of the Comments Invited and prevent failure of the T/R driveshaft splined coupling. The proposed actions and subsequent loss of control of the We invite you to participate in this helicopter. are intended to detect and prevent rulemaking by submitting written excessive wear of the splined coupling, Sikorsky has developed a one-time comments, data, or views. We also which could lead to failure of the T/R inspection that requires cleaning, invite comments relating to the driveshaft and subsequent loss of inspecting, and lubricating the economic, environmental, energy, or control of the helicopter. driveshaft splines. Sikorsky has also federalism impacts that might result DATES: We must receive comments on from adopting the proposals in this developed a repetitive 100-hour time-in- this proposed AD by June 22, 2015. document. The most helpful comments service (TIS) requirement for inspecting ADDRESSES: You may send comments by reference a specific portion of the the T/R driveshaft for straightness, any of the following methods: proposal, explain the reason for any twists, and scratches; each coupling and • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to recommended change, and include internal stop for wear; each coupling http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the supporting data. To ensure the docket drive spline for wear; and each pinion online instructions for sending your does not contain duplicate comments, nut for correct torque. Rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS comments electronically. commenters should send only one copy FAA’s Determination • Fax: 202–493–2251. of written comments, or if comments are • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. filed electronically, commenters should We are proposing this AD because we Department of Transportation, Docket submit only one time. evaluated all known relevant Operations, M–30, West Building We will file in the docket all information and determined that an Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 comments that we receive, as well as a unsafe condition exists and is likely to New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, report summarizing each substantive exist or develop on other helicopters of DC 20590–0001. public contact with FAA personnel these same type designs. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:23 Apr 21, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\22APP1.SGM 22APP1

Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 77 / Wednesday, April 22, 2015 / Proposed Rules 22437 Related Service Information Under 1 1.8 hours, for a cost per helicopter of 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in CFR Part 51 $153 and a total cost of $166,005 for the Alaska to the extent that it justifies We reviewed Sikorsky 269 Alert fleet. Inspecting the grease fittings making a regulatory distinction; and Service Bulletin (ASB) B–299.1 for would require 0.25 hour, for a cost of 4. Will not have a significant Model 269A, 269A–1, 269B, 269C, and $21 per helicopter and a total cost of economic impact, positive or negative, TH–55A helicopters; 269C–1 ASB C1B– $22,785 for the fleet. Inspecting the on a substantial number of small entities 036.1 for Model 269C–1 helicopters; and driveshaft, fittings, internal stops, and under the criteria of the Regulatory 269D ASB DB–041.1 for Model 269D drive spines would require 1.8 hours, Flexibility Act. helicopters, each Revision 1 and dated for a cost per helicopter of $153 and a We prepared an economic evaluation February 24, 2012. Each ASB describes total cost of $166,005 for the fleet, per of the estimated costs to comply with procedures for cleaning, inspecting, and inspection cycle. this proposed AD and placed it in the lubricating the forward and aft T/R If required, replacing the T/R driving AD docket. driveshaft splined fittings and returning spline and driveshaft would require 1.6 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 to Sikorsky any parts that exceed wear work-hours, and required parts would cost about $14,853, for a cost per Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation limits. Each ASB also requires helicopter of $14,989. safety, Incorporation by Reference, implementing a 100 hour TIS recurring If required, replacing a T/R driven Safety. inspection of the T/R driveshaft, coupling and internal stop, coupling spline and driveshaft would require 1.5 The Proposed Amendment drive splines, and the pinion nut by work-hours, and required parts would cost about $14,836, for a cost per Accordingly, under the authority following the procedures in each model delegated to me by the Administrator, helicopter’s Handbook of Maintenance helicopter of $14,964. If required, replacing a grease fitting the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part Instructions. This service information is 39 as follows: reasonably available because the would require about .25 work-hour, and interested parties have access to it required parts would cost about $5, for PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS through their normal course of business a cost per helicopter of $26. DIRECTIVES or by the means identified in the Authority for This Rulemaking ADDRESSES section of this NPRM. ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Title 49 of the United States Code continues to read as follows: Proposed AD Requirements specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. This proposed AD would require, within 100 hours TIS, inspecting for section 106, describes the authority of § 39.13 [Amended] wear and lubricating the forward and aft the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding T/R driveshaft splines by following Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more the following new airworthiness certain procedures in the Sikorsky ASBs detail the scope of the Agency’s directive (AD): for each model helicopter. If there is authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Type excessive wear of the T/R driveshaft the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Certificate Previously Held by splines, the proposed AD would require Schweizer Aircraft Corporation) replacing the driveshaft fitting before Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2015– further flight. If the helicopter has a T/ General requirements.’’ Under that 1008; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW– R driveshaft grease fitting installed, the section, Congress charges the FAA with 064–AD. proposed AD would also require promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations (a) Applicability inspecting each grease fitting for certain conditions and replacing the grease for practices, methods, and procedures This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft fitting if necessary. The proposed AD the Administrator finds necessary for Corporation (Sikorsky) Model 269A, 269A–1, safety in air commerce. This regulation 269B, 269C, 269C–1, 269D, and TH–55A would also require, at intervals not is within the scope of that authority helicopters, certificated in any category. exceeding 100 hours TIS, inspecting the T/R driveshaft for straightness, twists, because it addresses an unsafe condition (b) Unsafe Condition and scratches; inspecting each forward that is likely to exist or develop on This AD defines the unsafe condition as and aft T/R driveshaft splines for wear; products identified in this rulemaking insufficient lubrication of a tail rotor (T/R) and correcting the torque of each pinion action. driveshaft splined fitting. This condition nut. could result in excessive wear of the T/R Regulatory Findings driveshaft splines, which could lead to Differences Between This Proposed AD We determined that this proposed AD failure of the T/R driveshaft and subsequent and the Service Information would not have federalism implications loss of control of the helicopter. The Sikorsky ASBs require returning under Executive Order 13132. This (c) Comments Due Date any splined fittings that exceed wear proposed AD would not have a We must receive comments by June 22, limits to Sikorsky, while this proposed substantial direct effect on the States, on 2015. AD requires replacing those fittings and the relationship between the national the T/R driveshaft. Government and the States, or on the (d) Compliance distribution of power and You are responsible for performing each Costs of Compliance action required by this AD within the responsibilities among the various Rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS We estimate that this proposed AD levels of government. specified compliance time unless it has would affect 1,085 helicopters of U.S. For the reasons discussed, I certify already been accomplished prior to that time. Registry. We estimate that operators this proposed regulation: (e) Required Actions may incur the following costs in order 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory (1) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS): to comply with this AD. At an average action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (i) Inspect each T/R driveshaft splined labor rate of $85 per work-hour, 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the fitting for a crack, a break, excessive wear, inspecting and lubricating the T/R DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures galling, spalling, chipping, corrosion, heat driveshaft splined fittings would require (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); discoloration, and distortion by following the VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:23 Apr 21, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\22APP1.SGM 22APP1

22438 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 77 / Wednesday, April 22, 2015 / Proposed Rules Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs Customer Service Engineering, 124 Quarry • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to 3.B.(1) through 3.B.(2), of Sikorsky 269 Alert Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800- http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the Service Bulletin (ASB) B–299.1 for Model Winged-S or 203–416–4299; email instructions for submitting comments. 269A, 269A–1, 269B, 269C, and TH–55A sikorskywcs@sikorsky.com. You may review • Fax: (202) 493–2251. helicopters; 269C–1 ASB C1B–036.1 for a copy of information at the FAA, Office of Model 269C–1 helicopters; or 269D ASB DB– the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, • Mail: U.S. Department of 041.1 for Model 269D helicopters, each 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Transportation, Docket Operations, M– Revision 1 and dated February 24, 2012. If Texas 76137. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room there is a crack, a break, excessive wear, W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., galling, spalling, chipping, corrosion, heat (h) Subject Washington, DC 20590. discoloration, or distortion on any T/R Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of driveshaft splined fitting, before further Code: 6500: Tail Rotor Drive. Transportation, Docket Operations, M– flight, replace the affected splined fitting and Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 14, 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room the T/R driveshaft. 2015. W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., (ii) If installed, inspect each T/R driveshaft grease fitting for looseness, presence of a Lance T. Gant, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 check ball inside each fitting, and for proper Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft p.m., Monday through Friday, except operation and seating of each check ball. If Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. Federal holidays. any grease fitting is loose, missing a check [FR Doc. 2015–09098 Filed 4–21–15; 8:45 am] For service information identified in ball, fails to properly operate, or if a check BILLING CODE 4910–13P– this proposed AD, contact Zodiac ball fails to seat, before further flight, replace Services, Technical Publication the grease fitting. Department, Zodiac Aerotechnics, (iii) Lubricate each driveshaft fitting by DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Oxygen Systems Europe, 61 Rue Pierre following the Accomplishment Instructions, Curie—CS20001, 78373 Plaisir Cedex, paragraph 3.B.(6), of Sikorsky 269 ASB B– Federal Aviation Administration 299.1 for Model 269A, 269A–1, 269B, 269C, France; phone: (33) 01 61 24 23 23; fax: and TH–55A helicopters; 269C–1 ASB C1B– (33) 01 30 55 71 61; email: yann.laine@ 036.1 for Model 269C–1 helicopters; or 269D 14 CFR Part 39 zodiacaerospace.com; Internet: http:// ASB DB–041.1 for Model 269D helicopters, [Docket No. FAA–2015–0927; Directorate www.zodiacaerospace.com. You may each Revision 1 and dated February 24, 2012. Identifier 2013–NM–172–AD] view this referenced service information (2) Within 100 hours TIS after the at the FAA, Transport Airplane inspections required by paragraph (e)(1) of RIN 2120–AA64 Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., this AD, and thereafter at intervals not Renton, WA. For information on the exceeding 100 hours TIS: Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Aerotechnics (Formerly Intertechnique availability of this material at the FAA, (i) Remove the driveshaft from the gearbox and clean any grease from each end fitting. Aircraft Systems) call 425–227–1221. (ii) Inspect the driveshaft for straightness, Examining the AD Docket a twist, and a scratch. If the driveshaft has AGENCY: Federal Aviation any bends, twists, or scratches, before further Administration (FAA), DOT. You may examine the AD docket on flight, replace the driveshaft. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking the Internet at http:// (iii) Inspect the internal splines of each (NPRM). www.regulations.gov by searching for forward and aft fitting and each internal stop and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– for wear. If there is any wear, before further SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new 0927; or in person at the Docket flight, replace the fitting. airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Management Facility between 9 a.m. (iv) Inspect the drive splines of each Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, splined drive fitting for wear. If there is any Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) except Federal holidays. The AD docket wear, before further flight, replace the splined drive fitting. flightcrew oxygen mask regulators as contains this proposed AD, the (v) Loosen the aft frame clamp and apply installed on, but not limited to, various regulatory evaluation, any comments a torque of 750 to 1,000 inch-pounds to each transport and small airplanes. This received, and other information. The main transmission aft pinion nut. proposed AD was prompted by a report street address for the Docket Operations that improper maintenance on oxygen office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC) mask regulators was found. This the ADDRESSES section. Comments will proposed AD would require the be available in the AD docket shortly (1) The Manager, New York Aircraft identification and replacement of all after receipt. Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: potentially affected units. This proposed FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ian Stephen Kowalski, Aviation Safety Engineer, AD also would require installation of a Lucas, Aerospace Engineer, Boston New York Aircraft Certification Office, placard and revision of the airplane Aircraft Certification Office (ACO) Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1600 Stewart flight manual to include an operational ANE–150, FAA, Engine and Propeller Ave., suite 410, Westbury, New York 11590; procedure for use in case of Directorate, 12 New England Executive telephone (516) 228–7327; email depressurization. We are proposing this Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: stephen.kowalski@faa.gov. AD to detect and correct affected oxygen (2) For operations conducted under a 14 781–238–7757; fax: 781–238–7170; mask regulators, which could lead to email: ian.lucas@faa.gov. CFR part 119 operating certificate or under inadequate protection to the affected 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: you notify your principal inspector, or flightcrew against hypoxia. Hypoxia can Rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS lacking a principal inspector, the manager of start from a headache and drowsiness Comments Invited the local flight standards district office or and lead eventually to unconsciousness We invite you to send any written certificate holding district office before with severe consequence in terms of relevant data, views, or arguments about operating any aircraft complying with this airplane controllability. this proposed AD. Send your comments AD through an AMOC. DATES: We must receive comments on to an address listed under the (g) Additional Information this proposed AD by June 8, 2015. ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. For service information identified in this ADDRESSES: You may send comments by FAA–2015–0927; Directorate Identifier AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, any of the following methods: 2013–NM–172–AD’’ at the beginning of VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:23 Apr 21, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\22APP1.SGM 22APP1


Document Created: 2015-12-16 08:28:17
Document Modified: 2015-12-16 08:28:17
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 22, 2015.
ContactStephen Kowalski, Aviation Safety Engineer, New York Aircraft Certification Office, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1600 Stewart Ave., suite 410, Westbury, New York 11590; telephone (516) 228-7327; email [email protected]
FR Citation80 FR 22436 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
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