81 FR 21259 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France) Helicopters
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 69 (April 11, 2016)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 69 (April 11, 2016)
| Page Range | 21259-21261 | |
| FR Document | 2016-07983 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 69 (Monday, April 11, 2016)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 21259-21261] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-07983] [[Page 21259]] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2014-0333; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-025-AD; Amendment 39-18474; AD 2016-07-29] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France) Helicopters AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP, AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting each TECALEMIT flexible hydraulic hose (hose) installed in the main gearbox (MGB) compartment and replacing the hose if a crack, cut, or other damage exists. This AD was prompted by reports about the loss of in-flight hydraulic pressure on Eurocopter France helicopters. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent loss of the hydraulic system and consequently, loss of helicopter control. DATES: This AD is effective May 16, 2016. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 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 the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 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 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 (phone: 800-647-5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion On June 2, 2014, at 79 FR 31229, the Federal Register published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters (previously Eurocopter France) Model EC225LP, AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters with a TECALEMIT MGB hose installed. The NPRM proposed to require repetitively inspecting each hose installed in the MGB compartment and replacing the hose before further flight if a crack, cut, or other damage exists that allows you to see the metal braid underneath. If a crack, cut, or other damage exists on the right-hand hydraulic system that does not allow you to see the metal braid underneath, the NPRM proposed replacing the hose within 300 hours TIS. If a crack, cut, or other damage exists on the left-hand hydraulic system that does not allow you to see the metal braid underneath, the NPRM proposed replacing the hose within 600 hours TIS. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent failure of a hose, which could result in loss of the hydraulic system and consequently, loss of helicopter control. The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2013-0069, dated March 18, 2013, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters) Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters. EASA advises that in-flight losses of hydraulic pressure were reported on these helicopters because of ``significant'' tears on the protection sheath of MGB hydraulic flexible ``pipes'' manufactured by TECALEMIT. This condition could lead to simultaneous left-hand and right-hand hydraulic system leakage, loss of the hydraulic system, and consequently, loss of helicopter control could occur, EASA advises. The NPRM incorrectly stated that the Model AS332C1 helicopter did not have an FAA type certificate. We plan additional rulemaking to supersede this AD to include the Model AS332C1 helicopter. Comments After our NPRM (79 FR 31229, June 2, 2014) was published, we received comments from one commenter. Request Airbus Helicopters noted that the proposed AD does not mention Airbus Helicopters service information specifying installation of non- TECALEMIT hoses, which it considers terminating action for the repetitive inspections of the hoses. Airbus Helicopters requested that the AD reflect that action. We agree with the comment but disagree that a change to the AD is necessary. Because the AD is only applicable if a TECALEMIT hose is installed, replacing the hose as described by Airbus Helicopters in its comment would serve as ``terminating action'' for the required inspections. If a non-TECALEMIT hose is installed, the AD does not apply. Airbus Helicopters stated that the proposed AD would require that a damaged hose sheath on right-hand hydraulic system be replaced within 300 hours time-in-service (TIS) and a damaged hose sheath on the left- hand system be replaced within 600 hours TIS. Airbus Helicopters requested that we change these proposed requirements to replacing the hose within 300 hours TIS if the hose sheath is damaged on both the right- and left-hand system and replacing the hose within 600 hours TIS if the hose sheath is damaged on only one side. We do not agree. The right-hand hose is subject to higher pressure and therefore we determined more stringent requirements for the right-hand hose are necessary than for the left-hand hose. Lastly, Airbus Helicopters requested that we extend the repetitive inspection to every 1,200 hours TIS after the initial inspection at 110 hours TIS. When asked for additional information, Airbus Helicopters stated that no discrepancies have been found as a result of the inspections on its EC225 fleet, and that most of its AS332 fleet that are operating have complied with the service information. We disagree. Airbus Helicopters provided no support for its position that the hoses perform safely for 1,200 hours TIS after the initial inspection. Because the root cause of the cracking is unknown, we have determined that inspecting the hoses every 110 hours TIS is necessary. 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 [[Page 21260]] agreement with France, EASA, its technical representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all information provided by EASA, reviewed the relevant information, considered the comments received, and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires a one-time inspection, while this AD requires that the inspection of the hoses be repeated every 110 hours TIS. The EASA AD requires that if severe damage is found in a hose on the right- hand hydraulic system, then the hose be replaced before the next flight, while this AD requires this regardless of whether the hose is on the right-hand or left-hand hydraulic system. EASA has set some compliance times based on months. We set compliance times based only on hours TIS. Related Service Information Eurocopter issued Service Bulletin (SB) No. EC225-05-027, Revision 1, dated July 17, 2013, for Model EC225LP helicopters and SB No. AS332- 05.00.92, Revision 1, dated July 17, 2013, for Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2 and military Model AS332B, AS332B1, AS332F1, AS332M and AS332M1 helicopters. The SBs state Eurocopter received a report concerning the loss of pressure in the left hand hydraulic system in-flight. Hydraulic fluid was found in the cabin, though the flight was completed without further incident. An examination of the hydraulic system showed that the hose located between the forward servo-control and the hydraulic manifold had burst. Further investigations have shown corrosion on the metal braid located under the fire-resistant sheath of hoses manufactured by TECALEMIT. The corrosion may be caused by the deterioration or gaping of the fire- resistant sheath at the hose ends, enabling humidity to enter between the sheath and the metal braid. As a result, SB No. EC225-05-027 and SB No. AS332-05.00.92 call for inspecting each hose for a notch, tear, crack, or scuff mark, and replacing any damaged hose. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 19 helicopters of U.S. Registry and that labor costs average $85 a work-hour. Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs:Inspecting the hoses installed in a MGB compartment requires 1.5 work-hours for a labor cost of about $128 per helicopter, $2,432 for the U.S. fleet. Replacing a hose requires 2.5 work-hours for a labor cost of about $213. Parts cost $2,000 for a total cost of $2,213 per helicopter. 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 helicopters identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under 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 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. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2016-07-29 Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France): Amendment 39-18474; Docket No. FAA-2014-0333; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-025-AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP, AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters with a TECALEMIT main gear box (MGB) hydraulic flexible hose (hose) installed, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as loss of hydraulic pressure because of the failure of a hose. This condition could result in loss of the hydraulic system and consequently, loss of helicopter control. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective May 16, 2016. (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 110 hours time-in-service (TIS), and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 110 hours TIS, visually inspect each TECALEMIT hose installed in the MGB compartment for a cut, crack, or other damage. (2) If there is a cut, crack, or any other damage in the hose sheath that allows you to see the metal braid underneath when pinching or twisting the sheath, replace the hose before further flight. (3) If there is a cut, crack, or any other damage in the hose sheath on the right hand hydraulic system that does not allow you to see the metal braid underneath, replace the hose within 300 hours TIS. (4) If there is a cut, crack, or any other damage in the hose sheath on the left hand hydraulic system that does not allow you to see the metal braid underneath, replace the hose within 600 hours TIS. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 [[Page 21261]] 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. (g) Additional Information (1) Eurocopter Service Bulletin (SB) No. EC225-05-027 and SB No. AS332-05.00.92, both Revision 1 and dated July 17, 2013; Eurocopter SB No. AS332-29.00.17 and SB No. EC225-29-005, both Revision 0 and both dated June 21, 2013; and Eurocopter Information Notice No. 2506-I-29, Revision 2, dated July 24, 2013; which are not incorporated by reference, contain 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; or at http://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013-0069, dated March 18, 2013. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2014-0333. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2910, Main Hydraulic System. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 31, 2016. James A. Grigg, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-07983 Filed 4-8-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Comments
Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, After our NPRM (79 FR 31229, June
Federal Aviation Administration Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft 2, 2014) was published, we received
Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood comments from one commenter.
14 CFR Part 39 Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone
(817) 222–5110; email Request
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0333; Directorate rao.edupuganti@faa.gov.
Identifier 2013–SW–025–AD; Amendment Airbus Helicopters noted that the
39–18474; AD 2016–07–29] SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: proposed AD does not mention Airbus
Helicopters service information
RIN 2120–AA64 Discussion specifying installation of non-
On June 2, 2014, at 79 FR 31229, the TECALEMIT hoses, which it considers
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus terminating action for the repetitive
Federal Register published our notice of
Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter inspections of the hoses. Airbus
proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which
France) Helicopters Helicopters requested that the AD
proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by
adding an AD that would apply to reflect that action. We agree with the
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Airbus Helicopters (previously comment but disagree that a change to
Administration (FAA), DOT.
Eurocopter France) Model EC225LP, the AD is necessary. Because the AD is
ACTION: Final rule. only applicable if a TECALEMIT hose is
AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, and
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new AS332L2 helicopters with a installed, replacing the hose as
airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus TECALEMIT MGB hose installed. described by Airbus Helicopters in its
Helicopters Model EC225LP, AS332C, comment would serve as ‘‘terminating
The NPRM proposed to require
AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 action’’ for the required inspections. If
repetitively inspecting each hose
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting a non-TECALEMIT hose is installed, the
installed in the MGB compartment and
each TECALEMIT flexible hydraulic AD does not apply.
replacing the hose before further flight
hose (hose) installed in the main Airbus Helicopters stated that the
if a crack, cut, or other damage exists
gearbox (MGB) compartment and proposed AD would require that a
that allows you to see the metal braid
replacing the hose if a crack, cut, or damaged hose sheath on right-hand
underneath. If a crack, cut, or other
other damage exists. This AD was hydraulic system be replaced within
damage exists on the right-hand
prompted by reports about the loss of 300 hours time-in-service (TIS) and a
hydraulic system that does not allow
in-flight hydraulic pressure on damaged hose sheath on the left-hand
you to see the metal braid underneath,
Eurocopter France helicopters. The system be replaced within 600 hours
the NPRM proposed replacing the hose
actions of this AD are intended to TIS. Airbus Helicopters requested that
within 300 hours TIS. If a crack, cut, or
prevent loss of the hydraulic system and we change these proposed requirements
other damage exists on the left-hand
consequently, loss of helicopter control. to replacing the hose within 300 hours
hydraulic system that does not allow
TIS if the hose sheath is damaged on
DATES: This AD is effective May 16, you to see the metal braid underneath,
both the right- and left-hand system and
2016. the NPRM proposed replacing the hose
replacing the hose within 600 hours TIS
within 600 hours TIS. The proposed
ADDRESSES: For service information if the hose sheath is damaged on only
requirements were intended to prevent
identified in this final rule, contact one side. We do not agree. The right-
failure of a hose, which could result in
Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum hand hose is subject to higher pressure
loss of the hydraulic system and
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; and therefore we determined more
consequently, loss of helicopter control.
telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232– stringent requirements for the right-
0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at http:// The NPRM was prompted by AD No. hand hose are necessary than for the
www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. 2013–0069, dated March 18, 2013, left-hand hose.
You may review the referenced service issued by EASA, which is the Technical Lastly, Airbus Helicopters requested
information at the FAA, Office of the Agent for the Member States of the that we extend the repetitive inspection
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, European Union, to correct an unsafe to every 1,200 hours TIS after the initial
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, condition for Eurocopter (now Airbus inspection at 110 hours TIS. When
Fort Worth, TX 76177. Helicopters) Model AS332C, AS332C1, asked for additional information, Airbus
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and Helicopters stated that no discrepancies
Examining the AD Docket EC225LP helicopters. EASA advises that have been found as a result of the
You may examine the AD docket on in-flight losses of hydraulic pressure inspections on its EC225 fleet, and that
the Internet at http:// were reported on these helicopters most of its AS332 fleet that are
www.regulations.gov or in person at the because of ‘‘significant’’ tears on the operating have complied with the
Docket Operations Office between 9 protection sheath of MGB hydraulic service information. We disagree.
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through flexible ‘‘pipes’’ manufactured by Airbus Helicopters provided no support
Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD TECALEMIT. This condition could lead for its position that the hoses perform
docket contains this AD, the European to simultaneous left-hand and right- safely for 1,200 hours TIS after the
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the hand hydraulic system leakage, loss of initial inspection. Because the root
economic evaluation, any comments the hydraulic system, and consequently, cause of the cracking is unknown, we
received, and other information. The loss of helicopter control could occur, have determined that inspecting the
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street address for the Docket Operations EASA advises. hoses every 110 hours TIS is necessary.
Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S. The NPRM incorrectly stated that the
Department of Transportation, Docket Model AS332C1 helicopter did not have FAA’s Determination
Operations Office, M–30, West Building an FAA type certificate. We plan These helicopters have been approved
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 additional rulemaking to supersede this by the aviation authority of France and
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, AD to include the Model AS332C1 are approved for operation in the United
DC 20590. helicopter. States. Pursuant to our bilateral
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agreement with France, EASA, its Based on these estimates, we expect the Adoption of the Amendment
technical representative, has notified us following costs: Accordingly, under the authority
of the unsafe condition described in the • Inspecting the hoses installed in a delegated to me by the Administrator,
EASA AD. We are issuing this AD MGB compartment requires 1.5 work- the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
because we evaluated all information hours for a labor cost of about $128 per follows:
provided by EASA, reviewed the helicopter, $2,432 for the U.S. fleet.
relevant information, considered the • Replacing a hose requires 2.5 work- PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
comments received, and determined the hours for a labor cost of about $213. DIRECTIVES
unsafe condition exists and is likely to Parts cost $2,000 for a total cost of
exist or develop on other helicopters of $2,213 per helicopter. ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
these same type designs and that air continues to read as follows:
Authority for This Rulemaking
safety and the public interest require Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
adopting the AD requirements as Title 49 of the United States Code
proposed. specifies the FAA’s authority to issue § 39.13 [Amended]
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
Differences Between This AD and the ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
section 106, describes the authority of
EASA AD the following new airworthiness
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
The EASA AD requires a one-time directive (AD):
Aviation Programs, describes in more
inspection, while this AD requires that detail the scope of the Agency’s 2016–07–29 Airbus Helicopters (Previously
the inspection of the hoses be repeated Eurocopter France): Amendment 39–
authority. 18474; Docket No. FAA–2014–0333;
every 110 hours TIS. The EASA AD We are issuing this rulemaking under Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–025–AD.
requires that if severe damage is found the authority described in Subtitle VII,
in a hose on the right-hand hydraulic Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: (a) Applicability
system, then the hose be replaced before ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
the next flight, while this AD requires section, Congress charges the FAA with Model EC225LP, AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1,
this regardless of whether the hose is on promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in and AS332L2 helicopters with a TECALEMIT
the right-hand or left-hand hydraulic air commerce by prescribing regulations main gear box (MGB) hydraulic flexible hose
system. EASA has set some compliance (hose) installed, certificated in any category.
for practices, methods, and procedures
times based on months. We set the Administrator finds necessary for (b) Unsafe Condition
compliance times based only on hours safety in air commerce. This regulation This AD defines the unsafe condition as
TIS. is within the scope of that authority loss of hydraulic pressure because of the
Related Service Information because it addresses an unsafe condition failure of a hose. This condition could result
that is likely to exist or develop on in loss of the hydraulic system and
Eurocopter issued Service Bulletin helicopters identified in this rulemaking consequently, loss of helicopter control.
(SB) No. EC225–05–027, Revision 1, action. (c) Effective Date
dated July 17, 2013, for Model EC225LP
helicopters and SB No. AS332–05.00.92, Regulatory Findings This AD becomes effective May 16, 2016.
Revision 1, dated July 17, 2013, for This AD will not have federalism (d) Compliance
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, implications under Executive Order You are responsible for performing each
AS332L1, AS332L2 and military Model 13132. This AD will not have a action required by this AD within the
AS332B, AS332B1, AS332F1, AS332M substantial direct effect on the States, on specified compliance time unless it has
and AS332M1 helicopters. The SBs state the relationship between the national already been accomplished prior to that time.
Eurocopter received a report concerning government and the States, or on the (e) Required Actions
the loss of pressure in the left hand distribution of power and
hydraulic system in-flight. Hydraulic (1) Within 110 hours time-in-service (TIS),
responsibilities among the various and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 110
fluid was found in the cabin, though the levels of government. hours TIS, visually inspect each TECALEMIT
flight was completed without further For the reasons discussed above, I hose installed in the MGB compartment for
incident. An examination of the certify that this AD: a cut, crack, or other damage.
hydraulic system showed that the hose (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory (2) If there is a cut, crack, or any other
located between the forward servo- action’’ under Executive Order 12866; damage in the hose sheath that allows you to
control and the hydraulic manifold had (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under see the metal braid underneath when
burst. Further investigations have DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures pinching or twisting the sheath, replace the
shown corrosion on the metal braid (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); hose before further flight.
located under the fire-resistant sheath of (3) If there is a cut, crack, or any other
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
damage in the hose sheath on the right hand
hoses manufactured by TECALEMIT. in Alaska to the extent that it justifies hydraulic system that does not allow you to
The corrosion may be caused by the making a regulatory distinction; and see the metal braid underneath, replace the
deterioration or gaping of the fire- (4) Will not have a significant hose within 300 hours TIS.
resistant sheath at the hose ends, economic impact, positive or negative, (4) If there is a cut, crack, or any other
enabling humidity to enter between the on a substantial number of small entities damage in the hose sheath on the left hand
sheath and the metal braid. As a result, under the criteria of the Regulatory hydraulic system that does not allow you to
SB No. EC225–05–027 and SB No. Flexibility Act. see the metal braid underneath, replace the
AS332–05.00.92 call for inspecting each We prepared an economic evaluation hose within 600 hours TIS.
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
hose for a notch, tear, crack, or scuff of the estimated costs to comply with (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
mark, and replacing any damaged hose. this AD and placed it in the AD docket. (AMOCs)
Costs of Compliance List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (1) The Manager, Safety Management
Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
We estimate that this AD affects 19 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti,
helicopters of U.S. Registry and that safety, Incorporation by reference, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management
labor costs average $85 a work-hour. Safety. Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101
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Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; 13 for certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASW- PA–28–161, PA–28–181, and PA–28R– 5432; or in person at the Docket
FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. 201 airplanes. AD 2015–20–13 required Management Facility between 9 a.m.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
inspecting the right wing rib at wing and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that station 140.09 for cracks and taking except Federal holidays. The AD docket
you notify your principal inspector, or necessary corrective action. This AD contains this AD, the regulatory
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of retains the actions for AD 2015–20–13 evaluation, any comments received, and
the local flight standards district office or and adds airplanes to the applicability. other information. The street address for
certificate holding district office, before This AD was prompted by reports that the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–
operating any aircraft complying with this additional airplanes have been found 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
AD through an AMOC. Comments will be available in the AD
with the same cracks. We are issuing
(g) Additional Information this AD to correct the unsafe condition docket shortly after receipt.
(1) Eurocopter Service Bulletin (SB) No. on these products. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
EC225–05–027 and SB No. AS332–05.00.92, DATES: This AD is effective April 26, Gregory ‘‘Keith’’ Noles, Aerospace
both Revision 1 and dated July 17, 2013; 2016. Engineer, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft
Eurocopter SB No. AS332–29.00.17 and SB The Director of the Federal Register Certification Office, 1701 Columbia
No. EC225–29–005, both Revision 0 and both Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337;
dated June 21, 2013; and Eurocopter approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD phone: (404) 474–5551; fax: (404) 474–
Information Notice No. 2506–I–29, Revision
2, dated July 24, 2013; which are not as of April 26, 2016. 5606; email: gregory.noles@faa.gov.
incorporated by reference, contain additional The Director of the Federal Register SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
information about the subject of this AD. For approved the incorporation by reference
service information identified in this AD, Discussion
of a certain other publication listed in
contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. this AD as of October 29, 2015 (80 FR On October 1, 2015, we issued AD
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; 2015–20–13, Amendment 39–18292 (80
telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323;
61725, October 14, 2015).
We must receive any comments on FR 61725), (‘‘AD 2015–20–13’’), for
fax (972) 641–3775; or at http:// certain Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA–
www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You this AD by May 26, 2016.
may review the referenced service 28–161, PA–28–181, and PA–28R–201
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
information at the FAA, Office of the airplanes. AD 2015–20–13 required
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 inspecting the right wing rib at wing
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, station 140.09 for cracks and taking
TX 76177. methods: necessary corrective action. AD 2015–
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to 20–13 resulted from a report from Piper
the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the Aircraft, Inc. of a production quality
AD No. 2013–0069, dated March 18, 2013. instructions for submitting comments. control problem on certain Models PA–
You may view the EASA AD on the Internet • Fax: 202–493–2251. 28–161, PA–28–181, and PA–28R–201
at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. • Mail: U.S. Department of airplanes. A change in production
FAA–2014–0333. Transportation, Docket Operations, M– tooling and processes caused cracks to
(h) Subject 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room form along the edge of rib stiffening
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., beads during manufacture. These cracks
Code: 2910, Main Hydraulic System. Washington, DC 20590. cause reduced structural integrity of the
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 31,
• Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of wing, which resulted in the inability of
2016. Transportation, Docket Operations, M– the wing rib to carry ultimate load. We
James A. Grigg, 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room issued AD 2015–20–13 to detect and
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., correct cracks in the wing rib, which if
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service. Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. not corrected, could result in reduced
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, structural integrity of the wing with
[FR Doc. 2016–07983 Filed 4–8–16; 8:45 am]
except Federal holidays. consequent loss of control.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
For service information identified in
this final rule, contact Piper Aircraft, Actions Since AD 2015–20–13 Was
Inc., Customer Service, 2926 Piper Issued
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32960; Since we issued AD 2015–20–13, we
Federal Aviation Administration telephone: (877) 879–0275; fax: none; received reports that operators in the
email: customer.service@piper.com; field found the same cracks in airplanes
14 CFR Part 39 Internet: www.piper.com. You may view outside the original applicability. After
this referenced service information at further investigation, Piper Aircraft, Inc.
[Docket No. FAA–2016–5432; Directorate the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate,
Identifier 2016–CE–009–AD; Amendment
issued a new service bulletin expanding
39–18466; AD 2016–07–21] 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri the serial number applicability of the
64106. For information on the affected airplane models. We are issuing
RIN 2120–AA64 availability of this material at the FAA, this AD to correct the unsafe condition
call (816) 329–4148. It is also available on these products.
Airworthiness Directives; Piper on the Internet at http://
Aircraft, Inc. Airplanes www.regulations.gov by searching for Related Service Information Under 1
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– CFR Part 51
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT. 5432. We reviewed Piper Aircraft, Inc.
ACTION: Final rule; request for Service Bulletin No. 1279A, dated
Examining the AD Docket March 3, 2016. The service bulletin
comments.
You may examine the AD docket on describes procedures for inspecting the
SUMMARY: We are superseding the Internet at http:// right wing rib at wing station 140.09 for
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015–20– www.regulations.gov by searching for cracks and for obtaining an FAA-
VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:13 Apr 08, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\11APR1.SGM 11APR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_21328/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2016-04-09 00:11:11
Document Modified: 2016-04-09 00:11:11
| 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 | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective May 16, 2016. | |
| Contact | Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 21259 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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