80_FR_46048 80 FR 45900 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters)

80 FR 45900 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 148 (August 3, 2015)

Page Range45900-45902
FR Document2015-18865

We propose to revise airworthiness directive (AD) 2015-12-09 for Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2, EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters. AD 2015-12-09 currently requires inspecting certain washers for movement and making the appropriate repairs if the washers move. As published, AD 2015-12- 09 references an incorrect date for the service information in the Credit for Previous Actions section. This proposed AD would correct the error while retaining the requirements of AD 2015-12-09. These proposed actions are intended to prevent loss of concerned control axis and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 148 (Monday, August 3, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 148 (Monday, August 3, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 45900-45902]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-18865]


========================================================================
Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 148 / Monday, August 3, 2015 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 45900]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0577; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-042-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
(Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters)

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to revise airworthiness directive (AD) 2015-12-09 
for Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2, 
EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters. AD 2015-12-09 
currently requires inspecting certain washers for movement and making 
the appropriate repairs if the washers move. As published, AD 2015-12-
09 references an incorrect date for the service information in the 
Credit for Previous Actions section. This proposed AD would correct the 
error while retaining the requirements of AD 2015-12-09. These proposed 
actions are intended to prevent loss of concerned control axis and 
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 18, 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 European 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) 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 
Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; 
telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; or at 
http://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You may review service 
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest 
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Wilbanks, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, 
Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; 
telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected].

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

    On June 18, 2015, at 80 FR 34831, the Federal Register published AD 
2015-12-09, Amendment 39-18184, for Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, 
EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2, EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB-BK 117 C-2 
helicopters. AD 2015-12-09 requires inspecting certain washers for 
movement in the attachment hardware that connects the Smart Electro 
Mechanical Actuator (SEMA) and the control rod of the longitudinal, 
lateral, and yaw actuators. If a washer can be moved, AD 2015-12-09 
requires replacing the four screws, installing two additional washers, 
and torque-tightening the screws. AD 2015-12-09 was prompted by play 
found between the SEMA and the control rod during installation work on 
a helicopter. The requirements of AD 2015-12-09 are intended to prevent 
loss of concerned control axis and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.
    AD 2015-12-09 was prompted by AD No. 2013-0176, dated August 7, 
2013, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member 
States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for 
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model EC 135 P1 (CDS), EC 135 P1 (CPDS), EC 
135 P2+, EC 135 P2 (CPDS), EC 135 T1 (CDS), EC 135 T1 (CPDS), EC 135 
T2+, EC 135 T2 (CPDS), EC 635 P2+, EC 635 T1 (CPDS), EC 635 T2+, and 
MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters. EASA advises that during installation work 
on a helicopter, it was discovered that it was not possible to install 
attachment hardware on a threaded blind borehole between the SEMA and 
the control rod without play. EASA advises that this condition, if not 
detected and corrected, could lead to loss of the concerned control 
axis, possibly resulting in loss of helicopter

[[Page 45901]]

control. For these reasons, EASA AD No. 2013-0176 requires a one-time 
inspection of the affected SEMA attachment hardware to detect improper 
connection and play and, depending on the findings, replacement of the 
affected hardware. After the issuance of EASA AD No. 2013-0176, 
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH changed its name to Airbus Helicopters 
Deutschland GmbH.
    When AD 2015-12-09 was published, an incorrect reference to the 
date of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) EC135-22A-015, Revision 
0, dated May 13, 2008, appeared in the text of the rule. Specifically, 
AD 2015-12-09 includes the following under paragraph (f), Credit for 
Previous Actions: ``If you performed the actions in Eurocopter Alert 
Service Bulletin EC135-22A-015, Revision 0, dated May 13, 2018, or 
Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB BK117 C-2-22A-009, Revision 0, 
May 13, 2008, before the effective date of this AD, you met the 
requirements of this AD.'' As published, the reference to May 13, 2018, 
is incorrect. The correct date for Eurocopter ASB EC135-22A-015, 
Revision 0, is May 13, 2008.
    The FAA has determined that it is appropriate to revise AD 2015-12-
09 to correct the date for Eurocopter ASB EC135-22A-015, Revision 0. 
Further, we are changing the physical address of the FAA Southwest 
Regional Office throughout the NPRM and the email address in paragraph 
(g), Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs). Since AD 2015-12-09 was 
issued, the FAA Southwest Regional Office has relocated and a group 
email address has been established for requesting an FAA AMOC for a 
helicopter of foreign design. We are not proposing to change any other 
part of the preamble or regulatory information. The final rule would be 
reprinted in its entirety for the convenience of affected operators.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
Germany and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with Germany, EASA, its technical 
representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in 
its AD. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known 
relevant information and determined that an unsafe condition is likely 
to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Eurocopter reported in ASBs EC135-22A-015, Revision 1, dated 
January 28, 2013, and MBB BK117 C-2-22A-009, Revision 1, dated August 
3, 2009, that it was discovered during the installation work on a 
helicopter that it was not possible to establish attachment hardware on 
a threaded blind borehole between the SEMA and the control rod without 
play. The ASBs state that ``unfavourable adding of the tolerances'' of 
the individual attachment hardware elements caused the screw to push 
against the bottom of the threaded blind borehole on the SEMA, 
preventing any clamping force on the screw head. The ASBs call for 
inspecting the SEMA attachment hardware connected to their respective 
control rods for play and making the proper adjustments to eliminate 
any play.
    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 
proposed AD.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would continue to require, within 50 hours time-
in-service, inspecting whether the washers can be moved in the 
attachment hardware that connects the SEMA and the control rod of the 
longitudinal, lateral, and yaw actuators. For Model MBB BK117 C-2 
helicopters, this inspection is only for the hardware connecting the 
Yaw-SEMA and the Yaw-SEMA control rod. If none of the washers can be 
moved, then no further action is needed. If a washer can be moved, then 
this proposed AD would require replacing the four screws, installing 
two additional washers, and torque-tightening the screws to 5-6 Nm.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD applies to Eurocopter Model EC635P2+, EC635T1 and 
EC635T2+ helicopters. This proposed AD does not apply to these model 
helicopters because they have no FAA type certificate.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 385 helicopters of 
U.S. Registry and that labor costs would average $85 per work-hour. 
Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs:
     Inspecting for movement of the washers would require 1.5 
work-hours for a labor cost of $128 per helicopter and $49,280 for the 
U.S. fleet.
     Replacing the screws and related work would require an 
additional 0.5 work-hours for a labor cost of $43. Screws would cost $4 
each while washers would cost $10 each. We estimate the cost would be 
$79 per repair.

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:

[[Page 45902]]

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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2015-12-09, Amendment 39-18184 (80 FR 34831, June 18, 2015), and adding 
the following new AD:

Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter 
Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters): Docket No. FAA-2014-0577; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-042-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135T1, 
EC135P2, EC135T2, EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB-BK 117 C-2 
helicopters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as loose attachment 
hardware between the Smart Electro Mechanical Actuator (SEMA) and a 
control rod. This condition could result in loss of the control axis 
and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by August 18, 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 50 hours time-in-service (TIS), for Model EC135P1, 
EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2, EC135P2+, and EC135T2+ helicopters, do 
the following:
    (i) Using Figure 1 and Figure 2 of Eurocopter Alert Service 
Bulletin EC135-22A-015, Revision 1, dated January 28, 2013 (ASB 
EC135-22A-015) as reference, inspect the attachment hardware between 
the SEMA and the longitudinal actuator control rod to determine 
whether any of the washers can be moved.
    (A) If no washer can be moved, no further action is needed.
    (B) If a washer can be moved, replace the four screws and 
install two additional washers, part number (P/N) EN2139-05016, to 
connect the SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten each screw to 
5-6 Nm.
    (ii) Using Figure 1 and Figure 2 of ASB EC135-22A-015 as 
reference, inspect the attachment hardware between the SEMA and the 
lateral actuator control rod to determine whether any of the washers 
can be moved.
    (A) If no washer can be moved, no further action is needed.
    (B) If a washer can be moved, replace the four screws and 
install two additional washers, P/N EN2139-05016, to connect the 
SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten each screw to 5-6 Nm.
    (iii) Using Figure 1, Figure 3, and Figure 4 of ASB EC135-22A-
015 as reference, inspect the attachment hardware between the SEMA 
and the yaw actuator control rod to determine whether any of the 
washers can be moved.
    (A) If no washer can be moved, no further action is needed.
    (B) If a washer can be moved, replace the four screws and 
install two additional washers, P/N EN2139-05016, to connect the 
SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten each screw to 5-6 Nm.
    (2) Within 50 hours TIS, for Model MBB BK117 C-2 helicopters, 
using Figure 1 of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB BK117 C-2-
22A-009, Revision 1, dated August 3, 2009, as reference, inspect the 
attachment hardware between the Yaw-SEMA and the Yaw-SEMA control 
rod to determine whether any of the washers can be moved.
    (i) If no washer can be moved, no further action is needed.
    (ii) If a washer can be moved, replace the four screws and 
install two additional washers, P/N EN2139-05016, to connect the 
SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten each screw to 5-6 Nm and 
apply polyurethane lacquer onto the attachment hardware.

(f) Affected ADs

    This AD revises AD 2015-12-09, Amendment 39-18184 (80 FR 34831, 
June 18, 2015).

(g) Credit for Previous Actions

    If you performed the actions in Eurocopter Alert Service 
Bulletin EC135-22A-015, Revision 0, dated May 13, 2008, or 
Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB BK117 C-2-22A-009, Revision 0, 
May 13, 2008, before the effective date of this AD, you met the 
requirements of this AD.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Regulations and Policy Group, FAA, may approve 
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Wilbanks, Aviation 
Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft 
Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; 
telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected].
    (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.

(i) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in the European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013-0176, dated August 7, 2013. You may 
view the EASA AD on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov in 
Docket No. FAA-2014-0577.

(j) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2213, Flight 
Controller

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 24, 2015.
Lance T. Gant,
Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-18865 Filed 7-31-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                    45900

                                                    Proposed Rules                                                                                                 Federal Register
                                                                                                                                                                   Vol. 80, No. 148

                                                                                                                                                                   Monday, August 3, 2015



                                                    This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER                       • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the                       We will file in the docket all
                                                    contains notices to the public of the proposed           ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5                 comments that we receive, as well as a
                                                    issuance of rules and regulations. The                   p.m., Monday through Friday, except                   report summarizing each substantive
                                                    purpose of these notices is to give interested           Federal holidays.                                     public contact with FAA personnel
                                                    persons an opportunity to participate in the                                                                   concerning this proposed rulemaking.
                                                    rule making prior to the adoption of the final           Examining the AD Docket
                                                    rules.
                                                                                                                                                                   Before acting on this proposal, we will
                                                                                                               You may examine the AD docket on                    consider all comments we receive on or
                                                                                                             the Internet at http://                               before the closing date for comments.
                                                    DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                             www.regulations.gov or in person at the               We will consider comments filed after
                                                                                                             Docket Operations Office between 9                    the comment period has closed if it is
                                                    Federal Aviation Administration                          a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through                       possible to do so without incurring
                                                                                                             Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD               expense or delay. We may change this
                                                    14 CFR Part 39                                           docket contains this proposed AD, the                 proposal in light of the comments we
                                                                                                             European Aviation Safety Agency                       receive.
                                                    [Docket No. FAA–2014–0577; Directorate                   (EASA) AD, the economic evaluation,
                                                    Identifier 2013–SW–042–AD]                                                                                     Discussion
                                                                                                             any comments received and other
                                                    RIN 2120–AA64                                            information. The street address for the                  On June 18, 2015, at 80 FR 34831, the
                                                                                                             Docket Operations Office (telephone                   Federal Register published AD 2015–
                                                    Airworthiness Directives; Airbus                         800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES                     12–09, Amendment 39–18184, for
                                                    Helicopters Deutschland GmbH                             section. Comments will be available in                Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1,
                                                    (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland                       the AD docket shortly after receipt.                  EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2,
                                                    GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters)                                 For service information identified in               EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB–BK
                                                                                                             this proposed AD, contact Airbus                      117 C–2 helicopters. AD 2015–12–09
                                                    AGENCY: Federal Aviation                                 Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive,               requires inspecting certain washers for
                                                    Administration (FAA), DOT.                               Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone                    movement in the attachment hardware
                                                    ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking                    (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax                 that connects the Smart Electro
                                                    (NPRM).                                                  (972) 641–3775; or at http://                         Mechanical Actuator (SEMA) and the
                                                                                                             www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub.                    control rod of the longitudinal, lateral,
                                                    SUMMARY:   We propose to revise                                                                                and yaw actuators. If a washer can be
                                                                                                             You may review service information at
                                                    airworthiness directive (AD) 2015–12–                                                                          moved, AD 2015–12–09 requires
                                                                                                             the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
                                                    09 for Airbus Helicopters Model                                                                                replacing the four screws, installing two
                                                                                                             Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
                                                    EC135P1, EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2,                                                                            additional washers, and torque-
                                                                                                             Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
                                                    EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB–BK                                                                                 tightening the screws. AD 2015–12–09
                                                                                                             76177.
                                                    117 C–2 helicopters. AD 2015–12–09                                                                             was prompted by play found between
                                                    currently requires inspecting certain                    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:   Matt               the SEMA and the control rod during
                                                    washers for movement and making the                      Wilbanks, Aviation Safety Engineer,                   installation work on a helicopter. The
                                                    appropriate repairs if the washers move.                 Regulations and Policy Group,                         requirements of AD 2015–12–09 are
                                                    As published, AD 2015–12–09                              Rotorcraft Directorate, Rotorcraft                    intended to prevent loss of concerned
                                                    references an incorrect date for the                     Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood                      control axis and subsequent loss of
                                                    service information in the Credit for                    Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone                 control of the helicopter.
                                                    Previous Actions section. This proposed                  (817) 222–5110; email matt.wilbanks@
                                                                                                                                                                      AD 2015–12–09 was prompted by AD
                                                    AD would correct the error while                         faa.gov.
                                                                                                                                                                   No. 2013–0176, dated August 7, 2013,
                                                    retaining the requirements of AD 2015–                   SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                            issued by EASA, which is the Technical
                                                    12–09. These proposed actions are                                                                              Agent for the Member States of the
                                                    intended to prevent loss of concerned                    Comments Invited
                                                                                                                                                                   European Union, to correct an unsafe
                                                    control axis and subsequent loss of                         We invite you to participate in this               condition for Eurocopter Deutschland
                                                    control of the helicopter.                               rulemaking by submitting written                      GmbH Model EC 135 P1 (CDS), EC 135
                                                    DATES: We must receive comments on                       comments, data, or views. We also                     P1 (CPDS), EC 135 P2+, EC 135 P2
                                                    this proposed AD by August 18, 2015.                     invite comments relating to the                       (CPDS), EC 135 T1 (CDS), EC 135 T1
                                                    ADDRESSES: You may send comments by                      economic, environmental, energy, or                   (CPDS), EC 135 T2+, EC 135 T2 (CPDS),
                                                    any of the following methods:                            federalism impacts that might result                  EC 635 P2+, EC 635 T1 (CPDS), EC 635
                                                      • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to                    from adopting the proposals in this                   T2+, and MBB–BK 117 C–2 helicopters.
                                                    http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the                   document. The most helpful comments                   EASA advises that during installation
                                                    online instructions for sending your                     reference a specific portion of the                   work on a helicopter, it was discovered
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    comments electronically.                                 proposal, explain the reason for any                  that it was not possible to install
                                                      • Fax: 202–493–2251.                                   recommended change, and include                       attachment hardware on a threaded
                                                      • Mail: Send comments to the U.S.                      supporting data. To ensure the docket                 blind borehole between the SEMA and
                                                    Department of Transportation, Docket                     does not contain duplicate comments,                  the control rod without play. EASA
                                                    Operations, M–30, West Building                          commenters should send only one copy                  advises that this condition, if not
                                                    Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200                         of written comments, or if comments are               detected and corrected, could lead to
                                                    New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                       filed electronically, commenters should               loss of the concerned control axis,
                                                    DC 20590–0001.                                           submit only one time.                                 possibly resulting in loss of helicopter


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                                                                            Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 148 / Monday, August 3, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                              45901

                                                    control. For these reasons, EASA AD                      Revision 1, dated August 3, 2009, that                estimate the cost would be $79 per
                                                    No. 2013–0176 requires a one-time                        it was discovered during the installation             repair.
                                                    inspection of the affected SEMA                          work on a helicopter that it was not
                                                                                                                                                                   Authority for This Rulemaking
                                                    attachment hardware to detect improper                   possible to establish attachment
                                                    connection and play and, depending on                    hardware on a threaded blind borehole                    Title 49 of the United States Code
                                                    the findings, replacement of the affected                between the SEMA and the control rod                  specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
                                                    hardware. After the issuance of EASA                     without play. The ASBs state that                     rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
                                                    AD No. 2013–0176, Eurocopter                             ‘‘unfavourable adding of the tolerances’’             section 106, describes the authority of
                                                    Deutschland GmbH changed its name to                     of the individual attachment hardware                 the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
                                                    Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH.                     elements caused the screw to push                     Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
                                                       When AD 2015–12–09 was published,                     against the bottom of the threaded blind              detail the scope of the Agency’s
                                                    an incorrect reference to the date of                    borehole on the SEMA, preventing any                  authority.
                                                    Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)                  clamping force on the screw head. The                    We are issuing this rulemaking under
                                                    EC135–22A–015, Revision 0, dated May                     ASBs call for inspecting the SEMA                     the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
                                                    13, 2008, appeared in the text of the                    attachment hardware connected to their                Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
                                                    rule. Specifically, AD 2015–12–09                        respective control rods for play and                  General requirements.’’ Under that
                                                    includes the following under paragraph                   making the proper adjustments to                      section, Congress charges the FAA with
                                                    (f), Credit for Previous Actions: ‘‘If you               eliminate any play.                                   promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
                                                    performed the actions in Eurocopter                         This service information is reasonably             air commerce by prescribing regulations
                                                    Alert Service Bulletin EC135–22A–015,                    available because the interested parties              for practices, methods, and procedures
                                                    Revision 0, dated May 13, 2018, or                       have access to it through their normal                the Administrator finds necessary for
                                                    Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB                    course of business or by the means                    safety in air commerce. This regulation
                                                    BK117 C–2–22A–009, Revision 0, May                       identified in the ADDRESSES section of                is within the scope of that authority
                                                    13, 2008, before the effective date of this              this proposed AD.                                     because it addresses an unsafe condition
                                                    AD, you met the requirements of this                                                                           that is likely to exist or develop on
                                                    AD.’’ As published, the reference to May                 Proposed AD Requirements                              products identified in this rulemaking
                                                    13, 2018, is incorrect. The correct date                    This proposed AD would continue to                 action.
                                                    for Eurocopter ASB EC135–22A–015,                        require, within 50 hours time-in-service,
                                                    Revision 0, is May 13, 2008.                             inspecting whether the washers can be                 Regulatory Findings
                                                       The FAA has determined that it is                     moved in the attachment hardware that                   We determined that this proposed AD
                                                    appropriate to revise AD 2015–12–09 to                   connects the SEMA and the control rod                 would not have federalism implications
                                                    correct the date for Eurocopter ASB                      of the longitudinal, lateral, and yaw                 under Executive Order 13132. This
                                                    EC135–22A–015, Revision 0. Further,                      actuators. For Model MBB BK117 C–2                    proposed AD would not have a
                                                    we are changing the physical address of                  helicopters, this inspection is only for              substantial direct effect on the States, on
                                                    the FAA Southwest Regional Office                        the hardware connecting the Yaw-                      the relationship between the national
                                                    throughout the NPRM and the email                        SEMA and the Yaw-SEMA control rod.                    Government and the States, or on the
                                                    address in paragraph (g), Alternative                    If none of the washers can be moved,                  distribution of power and
                                                    Methods of Compliance (AMOCs). Since                     then no further action is needed. If a                responsibilities among the various
                                                    AD 2015–12–09 was issued, the FAA                        washer can be moved, then this                        levels of government.
                                                    Southwest Regional Office has relocated                  proposed AD would require replacing                     For the reasons discussed, I certify
                                                    and a group email address has been                       the four screws, installing two                       this proposed regulation:
                                                    established for requesting an FAA                        additional washers, and torque-                         1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                                    AMOC for a helicopter of foreign design.                 tightening the screws to 5–6 Nm.                      action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                                    We are not proposing to change any                                                                               2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
                                                    other part of the preamble or regulatory                 Differences Between This Proposed AD                  DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                                    information. The final rule would be                     and the EASA AD                                       (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
                                                    reprinted in its entirety for the                          The EASA AD applies to Eurocopter                     3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
                                                    convenience of affected operators.                       Model EC635P2+, EC635T1 and                           Alaska to the extent that it justifies
                                                                                                             EC635T2+ helicopters. This proposed                   making a regulatory distinction; and
                                                    FAA’s Determination                                                                                              4. Will not have a significant
                                                                                                             AD does not apply to these model
                                                      These helicopters have been approved                   helicopters because they have no FAA                  economic impact, positive or negative,
                                                    by the aviation authority of Germany                     type certificate.                                     on a substantial number of small entities
                                                    and are approved for operation in the                                                                          under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                                    United States. Pursuant to our bilateral                 Costs of Compliance                                   Flexibility Act.
                                                    agreement with Germany, EASA, its                          We estimate that this proposed AD                     We prepared an economic evaluation
                                                    technical representative, has notified us                would affect 385 helicopters of U.S.                  of the estimated costs to comply with
                                                    of the unsafe condition described in its                 Registry and that labor costs would                   this proposed AD and placed it in the
                                                    AD. We are proposing this AD because                     average $85 per work-hour. Based on                   AD docket.
                                                    we evaluated all known relevant                          these estimates, we expect the following
                                                    information and determined that an                       costs:                                                List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                                                                                               • Inspecting for movement of the
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                                                    unsafe condition is likely to exist or                                                                           Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                                    develop on other products of the same                    washers would require 1.5 work-hours                  safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                                    type design.                                             for a labor cost of $128 per helicopter               Safety.
                                                                                                             and $49,280 for the U.S. fleet.
                                                    Related Service Information Under 1                        • Replacing the screws and related                  The Proposed Amendment
                                                    CFR Part 51                                              work would require an additional 0.5                    Accordingly, under the authority
                                                      Eurocopter reported in ASBs EC135–                     work-hours for a labor cost of $43.                   delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                                    22A–015, Revision 1, dated January 28,                   Screws would cost $4 each while                       the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
                                                    2013, and MBB BK117 C–2–22A–009,                         washers would cost $10 each. We                       39 as follows:


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                                                    45902                   Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 148 / Monday, August 3, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                                    PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                       (iii) Using Figure 1, Figure 3, and Figure           Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 24,
                                                    DIRECTIVES                                               4 of ASB EC135–22A–015 as reference,                  2015.
                                                                                                             inspect the attachment hardware between the           Lance T. Gant,
                                                    ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                  SEMA and the yaw actuator control rod to              Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft
                                                    continues to read as follows:                            determine whether any of the washers can be           Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
                                                                                                             moved.
                                                        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.              (A) If no washer can be moved, no further          [FR Doc. 2015–18865 Filed 7–31–15; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                             action is needed.                                     BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                    § 39.13   [Amended]                                         (B) If a washer can be moved, replace the
                                                    ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by                           four screws and install two additional
                                                    removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)                    washers, P/N EN2139–05016, to connect the             DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                    2015–12–09, Amendment 39–18184 (80                       SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten
                                                    FR 34831, June 18, 2015), and adding                     each screw to 5–6 Nm.                                 Federal Aviation Administration
                                                    the following new AD:                                       (2) Within 50 hours TIS, for Model MBB
                                                                                                             BK117 C–2 helicopters, using Figure 1 of              14 CFR Part 39
                                                    Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH                      Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB
                                                        (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland                   BK117 C–2–22A–009, Revision 1, dated                  [Docket No. FAA–2015–2967; Directorate
                                                        GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters): Docket No.               August 3, 2009, as reference, inspect the             Identifier 2014–NM–072–AD]
                                                        FAA–2014–0577; Directorate Identifier                attachment hardware between the Yaw-
                                                        2013–SW–042–AD.                                                                                            RIN 2120–AA64
                                                                                                             SEMA and the Yaw-SEMA control rod to
                                                    (a) Applicability                                        determine whether any of the washers can be
                                                                                                                                                                   Airworthiness Directives; DASSAULT
                                                                                                             moved.
                                                      This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters                     (i) If no washer can be moved, no further          AVIATION Airplanes
                                                    Model EC135P1, EC135T1, EC135P2,                         action is needed.
                                                    EC135T2, EC135P2+, EC135T2+, and MBB–                                                                          AGENCY: Federal Aviation
                                                                                                                (ii) If a washer can be moved, replace the         Administration (FAA), DOT.
                                                    BK 117 C–2 helicopters, certificated in any              four screws and install two additional
                                                    category.                                                washers, P/N EN2139–05016, to connect the             ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
                                                    (b) Unsafe Condition                                     SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten             (NPRM).
                                                      This AD defines the unsafe condition as                each screw to 5–6 Nm and apply
                                                                                                             polyurethane lacquer onto the attachment              SUMMARY:    We propose to supersede
                                                    loose attachment hardware between the                                                                          Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2002–23–
                                                    Smart Electro Mechanical Actuator (SEMA)                 hardware.
                                                                                                                                                                   20, for certain Dassault Aviation Model
                                                    and a control rod. This condition could result           (f) Affected ADs
                                                    in loss of the control axis and subsequent                                                                     FALCON 900EX and MYSTERE–
                                                                                                                This AD revises AD 2015–12–09,                     FALCON 900 airplanes. AD 2002–23–20
                                                    loss of control of the helicopter.
                                                                                                             Amendment 39–18184 (80 FR 34831, June                 currently requires repetitive operational
                                                    (c) Comments Due Date                                    18, 2015).                                            tests of the flap asymmetry detection
                                                       We must receive comments by August 18,                (g) Credit for Previous Actions                       system to verify proper functioning, and
                                                    2015.                                                                                                          repair if necessary; repetitive
                                                                                                                If you performed the actions in Eurocopter
                                                    (d) Compliance                                           Alert Service Bulletin EC135–22A–015,                 replacement of the inboard flap
                                                      You are responsible for performing each                Revision 0, dated May 13, 2008, or                    jackscrews with new or reconditioned
                                                    action required by this AD within the                    Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB                 jackscrews; and repetitive measurement
                                                    specified compliance time unless it has                  BK117 C–2–22A–009, Revision 0, May 13,                of the screw/nut play of the jackscrews
                                                    already been accomplished prior to that time.            2008, before the effective date of this AD, you       on the inboard and outboard flaps to
                                                                                                             met the requirements of this AD.                      detect discrepancies, and corrective
                                                    (e) Required Actions
                                                                                                             (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance                 action if necessary. AD 2002–23–20
                                                       (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS),            (AMOCs)                                               currently requires a revision of the
                                                    for Model EC135P1, EC135T1, EC135P2,
                                                    EC135T2, EC135P2+, and EC135T2+                            (1) The Manager, Regulations and Policy             airplane flight manual. Since we issued
                                                    helicopters, do the following:                           Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this                AD 2002–23–20, the maintenance
                                                       (i) Using Figure 1 and Figure 2 of                    AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Wilbanks,             manual has been revised. This proposed
                                                    Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin EC135–                 Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and             AD would require revising the
                                                    22A–015, Revision 1, dated January 28, 2013              Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,            maintenance or inspection program, as
                                                    (ASB EC135–22A–015) as reference, inspect                10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX                   applicable, to include the maintenance
                                                    the attachment hardware between the SEMA                 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-
                                                                                                             ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
                                                                                                                                                                   tasks and airworthiness limitations
                                                    and the longitudinal actuator control rod to
                                                                                                               (2) For operations conducted under a 14             specified in the Airworthiness
                                                    determine whether any of the washers can be
                                                    moved.                                                   CFR part 119 operating certificate or under           Limitations section of the airplane
                                                       (A) If no washer can be moved, no further             14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that            maintenance manual. This proposed AD
                                                    action is needed.                                        you notify your principal inspector, or               also removes the Model FALCON 900EX
                                                       (B) If a washer can be moved, replace the             lacking a principal inspector, the manager of         airplanes from the applicability of the
                                                    four screws and install two additional                   the local flight standards district office or         existing AD. We are proposing this AD
                                                    washers, part number (P/N) EN2139–05016,                 certificate holding district office before            to prevent reduced structural integrity
                                                    to connect the SEMA with the control rod.                operating any aircraft complying with this            of the airplane.
                                                    Torque-tighten each screw to 5–6 Nm.                     AD through an AMOC.
                                                       (ii) Using Figure 1 and Figure 2 of ASB                                                                     DATES: We must receive comments on
                                                                                                             (i) Additional Information                            this proposed AD by September 17,
                                                    EC135–22A–015 as reference, inspect the
                                                                                                                The subject of this AD is addressed in the         2015.
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                                                    attachment hardware between the SEMA and
                                                    the lateral actuator control rod to determine            European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD             ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
                                                    whether any of the washers can be moved.                 No. 2013–0176, dated August 7, 2013. You
                                                                                                             may view the EASA AD on the Internet at
                                                                                                                                                                   any of the following methods:
                                                       (A) If no washer can be moved, no further
                                                    action is needed.                                        http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No.                • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                                       (B) If a washer can be moved, replace the             FAA–2014–0577.                                        http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                                    four screws and install two additional                                                                         instructions for submitting comments.
                                                    washers, P/N EN2139–05016, to connect the                (j) Subject                                             • Fax: 202–493–2251.
                                                    SEMA with the control rod. Torque-tighten                   Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)              • Mail: U.S. Department of
                                                    each screw to 5–6 Nm.                                    Code: 2213, Flight Controller                         Transportation, Docket Operations, M–


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Document Created: 2018-02-23 10:51:17
Document Modified: 2018-02-23 10:51:17
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 August 18, 2015.
ContactMatt Wilbanks, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected]
FR Citation80 FR 45900 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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