80 FR 63145 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (previously Eurocopter France)
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 201 (October 19, 2015)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 201 (October 19, 2015)
| Page Range | 63145-63147 | |
| FR Document | 2015-26229 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 201 (Monday, October 19, 2015)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 63145-63147] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-26229] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-4112; Directorate Identifier 2014-SW-043-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (previously Eurocopter France) AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to supersede airworthiness directive (AD) 2010-23- 02 for Eurocopter France (now Airbus Helicopters) Model SA-365N, SA- 365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters. AD 2010-23-02 currently requires amending the Limitations section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) to limit the never-exceed velocity (VNE) to 150 Knots Indicated Air Speed (KIAS) and to add a 1,500 ft/minute rate of descent (R/D) limitation beyond 140 KIAS. Since we issued AD 2010-23-02, a design change designated as modification (MOD) 0755B28 improved the dynamic behavior of the horizontal stabilizer such that AD actions are not required. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2010-23-01 and revise the applicability to exclude helicopters with MOD 0755B28. These proposed actions are intended to exclude certain helicopters from the applicability and restrict the VNE on other helicopters to prevent failure of the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by December 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 in Docket No. FAA-2015-4112; 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, Texas 76177. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, Texas 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 October 15, 2010, we issued AD 2010-23-02, Amendment 39-16491 (75 FR 68169, November 5, 2010) for Eurocopter France (now Airbus Helicopters) Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters. AD 2010-23-02 requires amending the Limitations section of the RFM to limit the VNE to 150 KIAS and to add a 1,500 ft/minute R/D limitation beyond 140 KIAS and installing one or more placards on the cockpit instrument panel in full view of the pilot and copilot. AD 2010-23-01 was prompted by failures of the horizontal stabilizers on then-recently delivered Model AS 365 N3 helicopters due to a vibration phenomenon that may arise during the descent flight phases at high speed regardless of the stabilizer installed. Those actions were intended to prevent failure of the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. Actions Since AD 2010-23-02 Was Issued Since we issued AD 2010-23-01 (75 FR 68169, November 5, 2010), Eurocopter France changed its name to Airbus Helicopters. EASA, which is the [[Page 63146]] Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued EASA AD No. 2008-0204R1, Revision 1, dated May 21, 2014, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, SA- 365N2 and AS 365 N3 helicopters, all serial numbers, except those that have ``embodied'' MOD 07 55B28. EASA advises that Airbus Helicopters developed MOD 07 55B28 to improve the dynamic behavior of the horizontal stabilizer and thus reduce the vibration levels during high speed descent. EASA revised a prior AD and issued AD No. 2008-0204R1 to exclude helicopters with MOD 07 55B28 from the applicability. FAA's Determination These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of France and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with France, 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 these same type designs. Related Service Information We reviewed a Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) with three numbers (01.00.60, 01.00.16, and 01.28), Revision 1, dated December 2, 2008. EASB No. 01.00.60 applies to U.S. type-certificated Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters and also to military Model AS365F, Fs, Fi, and K helicopters that are not certificated in the United States. EASB 01.00.16 applies to military Model AS565AA, MA, MB, SA, SB, and UB helicopters that are not type certificated in the United States. EASB 01.28 applies to the Model SA- 366G1 helicopter. The EASB specifies bonding one or more locally- produced labels to the instrument panel stating that the VNE is limited to 150 KIAS and the R/D must not exceed 1,500 ft/min beyond 140 KIAS. Eurocopter states in the EASB that it is working on an enhanced definition that will be proposed as soon as possible. EASA classified this EASB as mandatory and issued AD No. 2008-0204-E, dated December 4, 2008, and revised with Revision 1, dated May 21, 2014, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these helicopters. We also reviewed Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin (SB) No. AS365-55.00.06, Revision 0, dated November 14, 2014, which Airbus Helicopters identifies as MOD 0755B28. The SB specifies repairing the stabilizer for suppression of the flutter phenomenon. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2010-23-02, Amendment 39-16491 (75 FR 68169, November 5, 2010) to amend the Limitations section of the RFM to limit the VNE to 150 KIAS and to add a 1,500 ft/minute R/D limitation for airspeeds beyond 140 KIAS and installing one or more placards on the cockpit instrument panel in full view of the pilot and copilot stating the limitations. This proposed AD would also revise the applicability to exclude those helicopters with MOD 0755B28 installed. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 33 helicopters of U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per hour. We estimate about \1/2\ work-hour per helicopter to make copies to include in the RFM and to make and install the placards. The parts costs are minimal. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators would be $1,403 for the fleet. 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2010-23-02, Amendment 39-16491 (75 FR 68169, November 5, 2010), and adding the following new AD: Airbus Helicopters (previously Eurocopter France): Docket No. FAA- 2015-4112; Directorate Identifier 2014-SW-043-AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters, with a horizontal stabilizer, part number 365A13- 3030-1901, -1902, -1903, -1904, -1905, -1906, -1908, -1909; 365A13- 3036-00, -0001, -0002, -0003; or 365A13-3038-00, installed, except those with modification 0755B28 installed, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as vibration during descent at high speed. This condition could result in failure of the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2010-23-02, Amendment 39-16491 (75 FR 68169, November 5, 2010). [[Page 63147]] (d) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by December 18, 2015. (e) 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. (f) Required Actions Before further flight: (1) Revise the airspeed operating limitation in the Limitations section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) by making pen and ink changes or by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM stating: ``The never-exceed speed (VNE) is limited to 150 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS)'' and ``The rate-of-descent (R/D) must not exceed 1,500 ft/min when the airspeed is beyond 140 KIAS.'' (2) Install one or more self-adhesive placards, with 6 millimeter red letters on white background, on the cockpit instrument panel in full view of the pilot and co-pilot to read as follows: ``VNE LIMITED TO 150 KIAS'' and ``R/D MUST NOT EXCEED 1,500 ft/min when airspeed is beyond 140 KIAS'' (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, Texas 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. (h) Additional Information (1) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.60, 01.00.16, and 01.28, Revision 1, dated December 2, 2008, which is not incorporated by reference, contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this 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. You may review a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, Texas 76177. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2008-0204R1, dated May 21, 2014. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2015-4112. (j) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 5310: Horizontal Stabilizer Structure. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 1, 2015. Lance T. Gant, Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015-26229 Filed 10-16-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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a manufacturer, the action must be modification (MOD) 0755B28 improved 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email
accomplished using a method approved by the dynamic behavior of the horizontal robert.grant@faa.gov.
the Manager, New York ACO, ANE–170, stabilizer such that AD actions are not SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation required. This proposed AD would
(TCCA); or Bombardier, Inc.’s TCCA Design Comments Invited
Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by
retain the requirements of AD 2010–23–
the DAO, the approval must include the 01 and revise the applicability to We invite you to participate in this
DAO-authorized signature. exclude helicopters with MOD 0755B28. rulemaking by submitting written
These proposed actions are intended to comments, data, or views. We also
(n) Related Information exclude certain helicopters from the invite comments relating to the
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing applicability and restrict the VNE on economic, environmental, energy, or
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) Canadian other helicopters to prevent failure of federalism impacts that might result
Emergency Airworthiness Directive CF– the horizontal stabilizer and subsequent from adopting the proposals in this
2014–27R1, dated August 29, 2014, for document. The most helpful comments
related information. This MCAI may be
loss of control of the helicopter.
DATES: We must receive comments on
reference a specific portion of the
found in the AD docket on the Internet at
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for this proposed AD by December 18, proposal, explain the reason for any
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–3988. 2015. recommended change, and include
(2) For service information identified in supporting data. To ensure the docket
this AD, contact Bombardier, Inc., 400 Côte ADDRESSES: You may send comments by does not contain duplicate comments,
Vertu Road West, Dorval, Québec H4S 1Y9, any of the following methods: commenters should send only one copy
Canada; telephone 514–855–5000; fax 514 • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to of written comments, or if comments are
855–7401; email http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the filed electronically, commenters should
thd.crj@aero.bombardier.com; Internet http:// online instructions for sending your submit only one time.
www.bombardier.com. You may view this comments electronically. We will file in the docket all
service information at the FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., • Fax: 202–493–2251. comments that we receive, as well as a
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S. report summarizing each substantive
Renton, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call Department of Transportation, Docket public contact with FAA personnel
425–227–1221. Operations, M–30, West Building concerning this proposed rulemaking.
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 Before acting on this proposal, we will
Issued in Renton, Washington, on October
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, consider all comments we receive on or
6, 2015.
DC 20590–0001. before the closing date for comments.
Jeffrey E. Duven, We will consider comments filed after
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 the comment period has closed if it is
Aircraft Certification Service. possible to do so without incurring
[FR Doc. 2015–26222 Filed 10–16–15; 8:45 am]
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. expense or delay. We may change this
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P proposal in light of the comments we
Examining the AD Docket receive.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION You may examine the AD docket on Discussion
the Internet at http://
On October 15, 2010, we issued AD
Federal Aviation Administration www.regulations.gov in Docket No.
2010–23–02, Amendment 39–16491 (75
FAA–2015–4112; or in person at the
FR 68169, November 5, 2010) for
14 CFR Part 39 Docket Operations Office between 9
Eurocopter France (now Airbus
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through
[Docket No. FAA–2015–4112; Directorate Helicopters) Model SA–365N, SA–
Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
Identifier 2014–SW–043–AD] 365N1, AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3
docket contains this proposed AD, the
helicopters. AD 2010–23–02 requires
RIN 2120–AA64 European Aviation Safety Agency
amending the Limitations section of the
(EASA) AD, the economic evaluation,
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus RFM to limit the VNE to 150 KIAS and
any comments received and other
Helicopters (previously Eurocopter to add a 1,500 ft/minute R/D limitation
information. The street address for the
France) beyond 140 KIAS and installing one or
Docket Operations Office (telephone
more placards on the cockpit instrument
AGENCY: Federal Aviation 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
panel in full view of the pilot and
Administration (FAA), DOT. section. Comments will be available in
copilot. AD 2010–23–01 was prompted
the AD docket shortly after receipt.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking by failures of the horizontal stabilizers
For service information identified in on then-recently delivered Model AS
(NPRM).
this proposed AD, contact Airbus 365 N3 helicopters due to a vibration
SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive, phenomenon that may arise during the
airworthiness directive (AD) 2010–23– Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone descent flight phases at high speed
02 for Eurocopter France (now Airbus (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax regardless of the stabilizer installed.
Helicopters) Model SA–365N, SA– (972) 641–3775; or at http:// Those actions were intended to prevent
365N1, AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3 www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. failure of the horizontal stabilizer and
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
helicopters. AD 2010–23–02 currently You may review service information at subsequent loss of control of the
requires amending the Limitations the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, helicopter.
section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
(RFM) to limit the never-exceed velocity Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, Actions Since AD 2010–23–02 Was
(VNE) to 150 Knots Indicated Air Speed Texas 76177. Issued
(KIAS) and to add a 1,500 ft/minute rate FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Since we issued AD 2010–23–01 (75
of descent (R/D) limitation beyond 140 Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, FR 68169, November 5, 2010),
KIAS. Since we issued AD 2010–23–02, Safety Management Group, FAA, 10101 Eurocopter France changed its name to
a design change designated as Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, Texas Airbus Helicopters. EASA, which is the
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Technical Agent for the Member States specifies repairing the stabilizer for responsibilities among the various
of the European Union, issued EASA suppression of the flutter phenomenon. levels of government.
AD No. 2008–0204R1, Revision 1, dated For the reasons discussed, I certify
Proposed AD Requirements this proposed regulation:
May 21, 2014, to correct an unsafe
condition for Airbus Helicopters Model This proposed AD would retain the 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
SA–365N, SA–365N1, SA–365N2 and requirements of AD 2010–23–02, action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
AS 365 N3 helicopters, all serial Amendment 39–16491 (75 FR 68169, 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
numbers, except those that have November 5, 2010) to amend the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
‘‘embodied’’ MOD 07 55B28. EASA Limitations section of the RFM to limit (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
advises that Airbus Helicopters the VNE to 150 KIAS and to add a 1,500 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
developed MOD 07 55B28 to improve ft/minute R/D limitation for airspeeds Alaska to the extent that it justifies
the dynamic behavior of the horizontal beyond 140 KIAS and installing one or making a regulatory distinction; and
stabilizer and thus reduce the vibration more placards on the cockpit instrument 4. Will not have a significant
levels during high speed descent. EASA panel in full view of the pilot and economic impact, positive or negative,
revised a prior AD and issued AD No. copilot stating the limitations. This on a substantial number of small entities
2008–0204R1 to exclude helicopters proposed AD would also revise the under the criteria of the Regulatory
with MOD 07 55B28 from the applicability to exclude those Flexibility Act.
applicability. helicopters with MOD 0755B28 We prepared an economic evaluation
installed. of the estimated costs to comply with
FAA’s Determination this proposed AD and placed it in the
These helicopters have been approved Costs of Compliance AD docket.
by the aviation authority of France and We estimate that this proposed AD List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
are approved for operation in the United would affect 33 helicopters of U.S.
States. Pursuant to our bilateral Registry. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
agreement with France, EASA, its We estimate that operators may incur safety, Incorporation by reference,
technical representative, has notified us the following costs in order to comply Safety.
of the unsafe condition described in its with this AD. Labor costs are estimated The Proposed Amendment
AD. We are proposing this AD because at $85 per hour. We estimate about 1⁄2
we evaluated all known relevant work-hour per helicopter to make copies Accordingly, under the authority
information and determined that an to include in the RFM and to make and delegated to me by the Administrator,
unsafe condition is likely to exist or install the placards. The parts costs are the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
develop on other products of these same minimal. Based on these figures, we 39 as follows:
type designs. estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
Related Service Information operators would be $1,403 for the fleet. DIRECTIVES
We reviewed a Eurocopter Emergency Authority for This Rulemaking
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) with three Title 49 of the United States Code continues to read as follows:
numbers (01.00.60, 01.00.16, and 01.28), specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
Revision 1, dated December 2, 2008. Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
EASB No. 01.00.60 applies to U.S. type- section 106, describes the authority of § 39.13 [Amended]
certificated Model SA–365N, SA– the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
365N1, AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3 Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
helicopters and also to military Model detail the scope of the Agency’s 2010–23–02, Amendment 39–16491 (75
AS365F, Fs, Fi, and K helicopters that authority. FR 68169, November 5, 2010), and
are not certificated in the United States. We are issuing this rulemaking under adding the following new AD:
EASB 01.00.16 applies to military the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Model AS565AA, MA, MB, SA, SB, and Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Airbus Helicopters (previously Eurocopter
UB helicopters that are not type France): Docket No. FAA–2015–4112;
General requirements.’’ Under that Directorate Identifier 2014–SW–043–AD.
certificated in the United States. EASB section, Congress charges the FAA with
01.28 applies to the Model SA–366G1 promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in (a) Applicability
helicopter. The EASB specifies bonding air commerce by prescribing regulations This AD applies to Model SA–365N, SA–
one or more locally-produced labels to for practices, methods, and procedures 365N1, AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3
the instrument panel stating that the the Administrator finds necessary for helicopters, with a horizontal stabilizer, part
VNE is limited to 150 KIAS and the R/ safety in air commerce. This regulation number 365A13–3030–1901, –1902, –1903,
D must not exceed 1,500 ft/min beyond is within the scope of that authority –1904, –1905, –1906, –1908, –1909; 365A13–
140 KIAS. Eurocopter states in the 3036–00, –0001, –0002, –0003; or 365A13–
because it addresses an unsafe condition 3038–00, installed, except those with
EASB that it is working on an enhanced that is likely to exist or develop on modification 0755B28 installed, certificated
definition that will be proposed as soon products identified in this rulemaking in any category.
as possible. EASA classified this EASB action.
as mandatory and issued AD No. 2008– (b) Unsafe Condition
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
0204–E, dated December 4, 2008, and Regulatory Findings This AD defines the unsafe condition as
revised with Revision 1, dated May 21, We determined that this proposed AD vibration during descent at high speed. This
2014, to ensure the continued would not have federalism implications condition could result in failure of the
airworthiness of these helicopters. under Executive Order 13132. This horizontal stabilizer and subsequent loss of
We also reviewed Airbus Helicopters proposed AD would not have a control of the helicopter.
Service Bulletin (SB) No. AS365– substantial direct effect on the States, on (c) Affected ADs
55.00.06, Revision 0, dated November the relationship between the national This AD replaces AD 2010–23–02,
14, 2014, which Airbus Helicopters Government and the States, or on the Amendment 39–16491 (75 FR 68169,
identifies as MOD 0755B28. The SB distribution of power and November 5, 2010).
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(d) Comments Due Date Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 1, • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
We must receive comments by December 2015. http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
18, 2015. Lance T. Gant, instructions for submitting comments.
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft • Fax: 202–493–2251.
(e) Compliance Certification Service. • Mail: U.S. Department of
You are responsible for performing each [FR Doc. 2015–26229 Filed 10–16–15; 8:45 am] Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
action required by this AD within the 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
specified compliance time unless it has
already been accomplished prior to that time.
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
(f) Required Actions DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
Before further flight: Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
(1) Revise the airspeed operating limitation Federal Aviation Administration 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
in the Limitations section of the Rotorcraft W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Flight Manual (RFM) by making pen and ink 14 CFR Part 39 Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5
changes or by inserting a copy of this AD into [Docket No. FAA–2015–3986; Directorate p.m., Monday through Friday, except
the RFM stating: ‘‘The never-exceed speed Identifier 2015–NM–057–AD] Federal holidays.
(VNE) is limited to 150 knots indicated For service information identified in
airspeed (KIAS)’’ and ‘‘The rate-of-descent RIN 2120–AA64
(R/D) must not exceed 1,500 ft/min when the
this proposed AD, contact Bombardier,
airspeed is beyond 140 KIAS.’’ Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123
(2) Install one or more self-adhesive Inc. Airplanes Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario
placards, with 6 millimeter red letters on M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416–375–
AGENCY: Federal Aviation 4000; fax 416–375–4539; email
white background, on the cockpit instrument
panel in full view of the pilot and co-pilot
Administration (FAA), DOT. thd.qseries@aero.bombardier.com;
to read as follows: ‘‘VNE LIMITED TO 150 ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Internet http://www.bombardier.com.
KIAS’’ and ‘‘R/D MUST NOT EXCEED 1,500 (NPRM). You may view this referenced service
ft/min when airspeed is beyond 140 KIAS’’ information at the FAA, Transport
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
(AMOCs) Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC–8–400, SW., Renton, WA. For information on
(1) The Manager, Safety Management –401, and –402 airplanes. This proposed the availability of this material at the
Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD was prompted by reports of chafing FAA, call 425–227–1221.
AD. Send your proposal to: Robert Grant, damage due to insufficient clearance on Examining the AD Docket
Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management the main landing gear (MLG) stabilizer
Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 brace, the nacelle A-frame structure, and You may examine the AD docket on
Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, Texas 76177;
the adjacent electrical wiring harnesses. the Internet at http://
telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-asw-ftw- www.regulations.gov by searching for
amoc-requests@faa.gov. An insufficient fillet radius may also
exist on certain airplanes. This and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 3986; or in person at the Docket
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under proposed AD would require, depending
on airplane configuration, an inspection Management Facility between 9 a.m.
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
you notify your principal inspector, or of the nacelle A-frame structure for and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of insufficient fillet radius; an inspection except Federal holidays. The AD docket
the local flight standards district office or for cracking of affected structure, and contains this proposed AD, the
certificate holding district office before rework or repair if necessary, and regulatory evaluation, any comments
operating any aircraft complying with this rework of the nacelle A-frame structure; received, and other information. The
AD through an AMOC. repetitive inspections of the nacelle A- street address for the Docket Operations
(h) Additional Information frame structure and the MLG stabilizer office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in
brace for insufficient clearance and the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
(1) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service
damage, and repair if necessary, and be available in the AD docket shortly
Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.60, 01.00.16, and
01.28, Revision 1, dated December 2, 2008, rework of the nacelle A-frame structure, after receipt.
which is not incorporated by reference, which would terminate the repetitive FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Aziz
contains additional information about the inspections; installation of new stop Ahmed, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
subject of this AD. For service information brackets and a shim on each MLG and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE–
identified in this AD, contact Airbus stabilizer brace assembly; and rework of 171, FAA, New York Aircraft
Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive, the electrical wiring harnesses in the Certification Office, 1600 Stewart
Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) nacelle area. We are proposing this AD Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–
to detect and correct chafing damage 11590; telephone 516–228–7329; fax
3775. You may review a copy of the service
information at the FAA, Office of the
and subsequent premature cracking and 516–794–5531.
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 fracture of the nacelle A-frame structure, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, which could result in failure of the MLG
Texas 76177. stabilizer brace and loss of the MLG Comments Invited
asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in down-lock indication, which could We invite you to send any written
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD adversely affect the safe landing of the relevant data, views, or arguments about
No. 2008–0204R1, dated May 21, 2014. You airplane. this proposed AD. Send your comments
may view the EASA AD on the Internet at DATES: We must receive comments on to an address listed under the
http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. this proposed AD by December 3, 2015. ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2015–4112.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, FAA–2015–3986; Directorate Identifier
(j) Subject using the procedures found in 14 CFR 2015–NM–057–AD’’ at the beginning of
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following your comments. We specifically invite
Code 5310: Horizontal Stabilizer Structure. methods: comments on the overall regulatory,
VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:25 Oct 16, 2015 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\19OCP1.SGM 19OCP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/80_FR_63346/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2015-12-15 08:36:16
Document Modified: 2015-12-15 08:36:16
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by December 18, 2015. | |
| Contact | Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, Texas 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 80 FR 63145 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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