81 FR 26097 - Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 84 (May 2, 2016)

Page Range		26097-26099
FR Document		2016-09239
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Models MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, MU-2B-36, MU-2B-36A, and MU-2B-60 airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as reports of cracks found in the attach fittings of the main landing gear oleo strut. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 84 (Monday, May 2, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 84 (Monday, May 2, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 26097-26099]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-09239]



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Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 84 / Monday, May 2, 2016 / Rules and 
Regulations

[[Page 26097]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-1363; Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-040-AD; 
Amendment 39-18496; AD 2016-08-19]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Models MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, MU-2B-36, 
MU-2B-36A, and MU-2B-60 airplanes. This AD results from mandatory 
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation 
authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe 
condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe 
condition as reports of cracks found in the attach fittings of the main 
landing gear oleo strut. We are issuing this AD to require actions to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective June 6, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of June 6, 2016.

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
1363; or in person at Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
    For service information identified in this AD, contact Mitsubishi 
Heavy Industries America, Inc., c/o Turbine Aircraft Services, Inc., 
4550 Jimmy Doolittle Drive, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 248-
3108, ext. 209; fax: (972) 248-3321; Internet: http://mu-2aircraft.com. 
You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 
329-4148. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA-2016-1363.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, ASW-143 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, 
San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308-3365; fax: (210) 308-3370; 
email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Mitsubishi Heavy 
Industries, Ltd. Models MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, MU-2B-36, MU-2B-36A, and 
MU-2B-60 airplanes. The NPRM was published in the Federal Register on 
January 26, 2016 (81 FR 4217). The NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe 
condition for the specified products and was based on mandatory 
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation 
authority of another country.
    The Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB), which is the aviation 
authority for Japan, has issued AD No. TCD-8595-2015, dated July 1, 
2015 (referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for certain Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) Models 
MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, and MU-2B-36 airplanes. You may examine the MCAI on 
the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2016-
1363.
    We have received reports of seven failures of the main landing gear 
oleo strut attach fitting on certain MHI Models MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, MU-
2B-36, MU-2B-36A, and MU-2B-60 airplanes. Investigation revealed that 
the failures resulted from improper lubrication and/or hard landings, 
which caused cracks to develop in the main landing gear oleo strut 
attach fitting.
    Japan is the State of Design for MHI Models MU-2B-30, MU-2B-35, and 
MU-2B-36 airplanes, which the MCAI AD applies to, and the United States 
is the State of Design for MHI Models MU-2B-36A and MU-2B-60 airplanes.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM (81 FR 4217, January 26, 
2016) or on the determination of the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for 
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (81 FR 4217, January 26, 2016) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (81 FR 4217, January 26, 2016).

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin 
No. 243, dated June 30, 2015, and MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 105/32-017, 
dated September 29, 2015. The service information describes procedures 
for visually inspecting the lugs of the oleo attach fittings on both 
sides for cracks, and if any visible cracks are found, replacing with a 
new fitting. We also reviewed Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 
Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32-011, dated April 
27, 2012, and MU-2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 176, FAA T.C.: No. 128/
32-013, dated July 18, 2013. This service information specifies doing 
repetitive ultrasound inspections of the main landing gear oleo upper 
attach fittings for cracks and ensuring proper lubrication of the main 
landing gear oleo fitting. 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 the AD.

[[Page 26098]]

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI

    We have determined that the repetitive visual inspections specified 
in the MCAI are not adequate for detecting cracks in the main landing 
gear oleo strut attach fitting. Repetitive ultrasonic inspections of 
the main landing gear oleo strut attach fitting have been added into 
the maintenance requirement manual for these airplanes, which is not 
considered mandatory in the FAA's airworthiness regulatory system. 
Therefore, we are incorporating that requirement through the rulemaking 
process.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 95 products of U.S. registry. 
We also estimate that it will take about 5 work-hours per product to 
comply with the visual inspection requirement of this AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the visual 
inspection requirements of this AD on U.S. operators to be $40,375, or 
$425 per product.
    We also estimate that it will take about 3 work-hours per product 
to comply with the ultrasound inspection requirements of this AD. The 
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the ultrasound 
inspection requirements of this AD on U.S. operators to be $24,225, or 
$255 per product.
    Owner/operators have the option to do an ultrasound inspection in 
lieu of the required visual inspection.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions will 
take about 24 work-hours and require parts costing $5,220, for a cost 
of $7,260 per product to replace the left-hand main landing gear oleo 
strut. We have no way of determining the number of products that may 
need this action.
    In addition, we also estimate that any necessary follow-on actions 
will take about 45 work-hours and require parts costing $5,220, for a 
cost of $9,045 per product to replace the right-hand main landing gear 
oleo strut. We have no way of determining the number of products that 
may need this action.

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 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 this AD:
    (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, 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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
1363; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, 
and other information. The street address for the Docket Office 
(telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will 
be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

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 AD:

2016-08-19 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.: Amendment 39-18496; 
Docket No. FAA-2016-1363; Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-040-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective June 6, 
2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Models MU-
2B-30, MU-2B-35, and MU-2B-36 airplanes, serial numbers 502 through 
696, except 652 and 661, and Models MU-2B-36A and MU-2B-60 
airplanes, serial numbers 661SA, and 697SA through 1569SA, 
certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 32: Landing 
Gear.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another 
country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation 
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as reports of 
cracks found in the upper attach fittings of the main landing gear 
oleo strut. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the main 
landing gear oleo strut attach fitting, which could cause the 
landing gear to fail and result in loss of control.

(f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the following actions:
    (1) Within the next 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) after June 
6, 2016 (the effective date of this AD) or within the next 6 months 
after June 6, 2016 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs 
first, do a visual inspection of the main landing gear oleo upper 
attach fittings for cracks. Do the inspection following the 
INSTRUCTIONS section in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 
Service Bulletin No. 243, dated June 30, 2015, and the INSTRUCTIONS 
section in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin 
No. 105/32-017, dated September 29, 2015, as applicable.
    (2) Before further flight after the inspection required in 
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, if no signs of cracks are found, 
lubricate the pin assembly attached to the main landing gear oleo 
attach fitting as specified in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-
2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32-011, dated 
April 27, 2012.
    (3) Within the next 100 hours TIS after doing the initial visual 
inspection required in

[[Page 26099]]

paragraph (f)(1) of this AD or within the next 12 months after doing 
the initial visual inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this 
AD, whichever occurs first, do an ultrasound inspection of the main 
landing gear oleo upper attach fittings for cracks as specified in 
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 
176, FAA T.C.: No. 128/32-013, dated July 18, 2013. This ultrasound 
inspection may also be done in place of the visual inspection 
required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD if done within the next 100 
hours TIS after June 6, 2016 (the effective date of this AD) or 
within the next 6 months after June 6, 2016 (the effective date of 
this AD), whichever occurs first. Repetitively thereafter ultrasound 
inspect the attach fittings every 600 hours TIS or 36 months, 
whichever occurs first, and any time a hard landing or overweight 
landing occurs.
    (4) Before further flight after any inspection required in 
paragraph (f)(3) of this AD, if no signs of cracks are found, 
lubricate the pin assembly attached to the main landing gear oleo 
attach fitting as specified in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-
2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32-011, dated 
April 27, 2012, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service 
News JCAB T.C.: No. 176, FAA T.C.: No. 128/32-013, dated July 18, 
2013.
    (5) Before further flight after any inspection required in 
paragraph (f)(1) and (f)(3) of this AD where cracks are found, 
replace the main landing gear oleo upper attach fittings following 
the INSTRUCTIONS section in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 
Service Bulletin No. 243, dated June 30, 2015, and the INSTRUCTIONS 
sections in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin 
No. 105/32-017, dated September 29, 2015, as applicable. After 
replacement, continue with the repetitive ultrasound inspection 
requirements of paragraph (f)(3) and lubrication requirements of 
paragraph (f)(4) of this AD.

(g) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, ASW-
143 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, San 
Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308-3365; fax: (210) 308-3370; 
email: [email protected]. Before using any approved AMOC on any 
airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office 
(FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.

(h) Related Information

    Refer to MCAI Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) AD No. TCD-
8585-2015, dated July 1, 2015, for related information. You may 
examine the MCAI on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2016-1363.

(i) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 
105/32-017, dated September 29, 2015.
    (ii) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 
243, dated June 30, 2015.
    (iii) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service News JCAB 
T.C.: No. 176, FAA T.C.: No. 128/32-013, dated July 18, 2013.
    (iv) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service News JCAB 
T.C.: No. 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32-011, dated April 27, 2012.
    (3) For Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd service information 
identified in this AD, contact Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, 
Inc., c/o Turbine Aircraft Services, Inc., 4550 Jimmy Doolittle 
Drive, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 248-3108, ext. 209; 
fax: (972) 248-3321; Internet: http://mu-2aircraft.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
(816) 329-4148. In addition, you can access this service information 
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2016-1363.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 14, 2016.
Robert P. Busto,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-09239 Filed 4-29-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
26097

Rules and Regulations Federal Register
Vol. 81, No. 84

Monday, May 2, 2016

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER For service information identified in caused cracks to develop in the main
contains regulatory documents having general this AD, contact Mitsubishi Heavy landing gear oleo strut attach fitting.
applicability and legal effect, most of which Industries America, Inc., c/o Turbine Japan is the State of Design for MHI
are keyed to and codified in the Code of Aircraft Services, Inc., 4550 Jimmy
Federal Regulations, which is published under Models MU–2B–30, MU–2B–35, and
Doolittle Drive, Addison, Texas 75001; MU–2B–36 airplanes, which the MCAI
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
telephone: (972) 248–3108, ext. 209; fax: AD applies to, and the United States is
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by (972) 248–3321; Internet: http://mu- the State of Design for MHI Models MU–
the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of 2aircraft.com. You may view this 2B–36A and MU–2B–60 airplanes.
new books are listed in the first FEDERAL referenced service information at the
REGISTER issue of each week. FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Comments
Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. We gave the public the opportunity to
For information on the availability of participate in developing this AD. We
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION this material at the FAA, call (816) 329– received no comments on the NPRM (81
4148. It is also available on the Internet FR 4217, January 26, 2016) or on the
Federal Aviation Administration at http://www.regulations.gov by determination of the cost to the public.
searching for Docket No. FAA–2016–
14 CFR Part 39 1363. Conclusion
[Docket No. FAA–2016–1363; Directorate FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: We reviewed the relevant data and
Identifier 2015–CE–040–AD; Amendment Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer,
39–18496; AD 2016–08–19] determined that air safety and the
FAA, ASW–143 (c/o San Antonio public interest require adopting the AD
RIN 2120–AA64 MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, as proposed except for minor editorial
San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) changes. We have determined that these
Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi 308–3365; fax: (210) 308–3370; email: minor changes:
Heavy Industries, Ltd. Airplanes andrew.mcanaul@faa.gov. • Are consistent with the intent that
AGENCY: Federal Aviation SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: was proposed in the NPRM (81 FR 4217,
Administration (FAA), Department of Discussion January 26, 2016) for correcting the
Transportation (DOT). unsafe condition; and
We issued a notice of proposed
ACTION: Final rule. rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR • Do not add any additional burden
part 39 by adding an AD that would upon the public than was already
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new proposed in the NPRM (81 FR 4217,
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain apply to certain Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, Ltd. Models MU–2B–30, January 26, 2016).
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Models MU–2B–30, MU–2B–35, MU– MU–2B–35, MU–2B–36, MU–2B–36A, Related Service Information Under 1
2B–36, MU–2B–36A, and MU–2B–60 and MU–2B–60 airplanes. The NPRM CFR Part 51
airplanes. This AD results from was published in the Federal Register
on January 26, 2016 (81 FR 4217). The We reviewed Mitsubishi Heavy
mandatory continuing airworthiness Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service Bulletin
information (MCAI) issued by an NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe
condition for the specified products and No. 243, dated June 30, 2015, and MU–
aviation authority of another country to 2 Service Bulletin No. 105/32–017,
identify and correct an unsafe condition was based on mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) dated September 29, 2015. The service
on an aviation product. The MCAI information describes procedures for
describes the unsafe condition as originated by an aviation authority of
another country. visually inspecting the lugs of the oleo
reports of cracks found in the attach attach fittings on both sides for cracks,
The Japan Civil Aviation Bureau
fittings of the main landing gear oleo and if any visible cracks are found,
(JCAB), which is the aviation authority
strut. We are issuing this AD to require replacing with a new fitting. We also
for Japan, has issued AD No. TCD–
actions to address the unsafe condition reviewed Mitsubishi Heavy Industries,
8595–2015, dated July 1, 2015 (referred
on these products. Ltd. MU–2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No.
to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
DATES: This AD is effective June 6, 2016. an unsafe condition for certain 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32–011, dated
The Director of the Federal Register Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) April 27, 2012, and MU–2 Service News
approved the incorporation by reference Models MU–2B–30, MU–2B–35, and JCAB T.C.: No. 176, FAA T.C.: No. 128/
of certain publications listed in the AD MU–2B–36 airplanes. You may examine 32–013, dated July 18, 2013. This
as of June 6, 2016. the MCAI on the Internet at http:// service information specifies doing
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD www.regulations.gov/ repetitive ultrasound inspections of the
docket on the Internet at http:// #!docketDetail;D=FAA-2016-1363. main landing gear oleo upper attach
www.regulations.gov by searching for We have received reports of seven fittings for cracks and ensuring proper
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES

and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– failures of the main landing gear oleo lubrication of the main landing gear
1363; or in person at Document strut attach fitting on certain MHI oleo fitting. This service information is
Management Facility, U.S. Department Models MU–2B–30, MU–2B–35, MU– reasonably available because the
of Transportation, Docket Operations, 2B–36, MU–2B–36A, and MU–2B–60 interested parties have access to it
M–30, West Building Ground Floor, airplanes. Investigation revealed that the through their normal course of business
Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey failures resulted from improper or by the means identified in the
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. lubrication and/or hard landings, which ADDRESSES section of the AD.

VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:39 Apr 29, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\02MYR1.SGM 02MYR1
26098 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 84 / Monday, May 2, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

Differences Between This AD and the We are issuing this rulemaking under PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
MCAI the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, DIRECTIVES
We have determined that the Part A, Subpart III, section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
repetitive visual inspections specified in
section, Congress charges the FAA with continues to read as follows:
the MCAI are not adequate for detecting
cracks in the main landing gear oleo promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
strut attach fitting. Repetitive ultrasonic air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures § 39.13 [Amended]
inspections of the main landing gear
oleo strut attach fitting have been added the Administrator finds necessary for ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
into the maintenance requirement safety in air commerce. This regulation the following new AD:
manual for these airplanes, which is not is within the scope of that authority 2016–08–19 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries,
considered mandatory in the FAA’s because it addresses an unsafe condition Ltd.: Amendment 39–18496; Docket No.
airworthiness regulatory system. that is likely to exist or develop on FAA–2016–1363; Directorate Identifier
Therefore, we are incorporating that products identified in this rulemaking 2015–CE–040–AD.
requirement through the rulemaking action. (a) Effective Date
process. Regulatory Findings This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes
Costs of Compliance effective June 6, 2016.
We determined that this AD will not
We estimate that this AD will affect have federalism implications under (b) Affected ADs
95 products of U.S. registry. We also Executive Order 13132. This AD will None.
estimate that it will take about 5 work- not have a substantial direct effect on
(c) Applicability
hours per product to comply with the the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, This AD applies to Mitsubishi Heavy
visual inspection requirement of this Industries, Ltd. Models MU–2B–30, MU–2B–
AD. The average labor rate is $85 per or on the distribution of power and 35, and MU–2B–36 airplanes, serial numbers
work-hour. responsibilities among the various 502 through 696, except 652 and 661, and
Based on these figures, we estimate levels of government. Models MU–2B–36A and MU–2B–60
the cost of the visual inspection For the reasons discussed above, I airplanes, serial numbers 661SA, and 697SA
requirements of this AD on U.S. certify this AD: through 1569SA, certificated in any category.
operators to be $40,375, or $425 per (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory (d) Subject
product. action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
We also estimate that it will take (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under Air Transport Association of America
(ATA) Code 32: Landing Gear.
about 3 work-hours per product to the DOT Regulatory Policies and
comply with the ultrasound inspection Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, (e) Reason
requirements of this AD. The average 1979), This AD was prompted by mandatory
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
Based on these figures, we estimate in Alaska, and originated by an aviation authority of another
the cost of the ultrasound inspection (4) Will not have a significant country to identify and correct an unsafe
requirements of this AD on U.S. economic impact, positive or negative, condition on an aviation product. The MCAI
describes the unsafe condition as reports of
operators to be $24,225, or $255 per on a substantial number of small entities cracks found in the upper attach fittings of
product. under the criteria of the Regulatory the main landing gear oleo strut. We are
Owner/operators have the option to Flexibility Act. issuing this AD to prevent failure of the main
do an ultrasound inspection in lieu of landing gear oleo strut attach fitting, which
the required visual inspection. Examining the AD Docket could cause the landing gear to fail and result
In addition, we estimate that any You may examine the AD docket on in loss of control.
necessary follow-on actions will take the Internet at http:// (f) Actions and Compliance
about 24 work-hours and require parts www.regulations.gov by searching for
Unless already done, do the following
costing $5,220, for a cost of $7,260 per and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– actions:
product to replace the left-hand main 1363; or in person at the Docket (1) Within the next 100 hours time-in-
landing gear oleo strut. We have no way Management Facility between 9 a.m. service (TIS) after June 6, 2016 (the effective
of determining the number of products and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, date of this AD) or within the next 6 months
that may need this action. except Federal holidays. The AD docket after June 6, 2016 (the effective date of this
In addition, we also estimate that any contains the NPRM, the regulatory AD), whichever occurs first, do a visual
necessary follow-on actions will take evaluation, any comments received, and inspection of the main landing gear oleo
about 45 work-hours and require parts upper attach fittings for cracks. Do the
other information. The street address for
inspection following the INSTRUCTIONS
costing $5,220, for a cost of $9,045 per the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647– section in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
product to replace the right-hand main 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 243, dated June
landing gear oleo strut. We have no way Comments will be available in the AD 30, 2015, and the INSTRUCTIONS section in
of determining the number of products docket shortly after receipt. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2
that may need this action. Service Bulletin No. 105/32–017, dated
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 September 29, 2015, as applicable.
Authority for This Rulemaking (2) Before further flight after the inspection
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
Title 49 of the United States Code safety, Incorporation by reference, required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, if no
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES

specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Safety. signs of cracks are found, lubricate the pin
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, assembly attached to the main landing gear
Adoption of the Amendment oleo attach fitting as specified in Mitsubishi
section 106, describes the authority of Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service News
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Accordingly, under the authority JCAB T.C.: No. 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32–
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more delegated to me by the Administrator, 011, dated April 27, 2012.
detail the scope of the Agency’s the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as (3) Within the next 100 hours TIS after
authority. follows: doing the initial visual inspection required in

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Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 84 / Monday, May 2, 2016 / Rules and Regulations 26099

paragraph (f)(1) of this AD or within the next (h) Related Information DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
12 months after doing the initial visual Refer to MCAI Japan Civil Aviation Bureau
inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this (JCAB) AD No. TCD–8585–2015, dated July 1, Federal Aviation Administration
AD, whichever occurs first, do an ultrasound
2015, for related information. You may
inspection of the main landing gear oleo 14 CFR Part 39
examine the MCAI on the Internet at http://
upper attach fittings for cracks as specified in
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA- [Docket No. FAA–2014–0657; Directorate
Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 176, FAA T.C.: 2016-1363. Identifier 2014–NM–058–AD; Amendment
No. 128/32–013, dated July 18, 2013. This (i) Material Incorporated by Reference 39–18501; AD 2016–09–03]
ultrasound inspection may also be done in
(1) The Director of the Federal Register RIN 2120–AA64
place of the visual inspection required in
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD if done within the approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this Airworthiness Directives; Dassault
next 100 hours TIS after June 6, 2016 (the
effective date of this AD) or within the next paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR Aviation Airplanes
6 months after June 6, 2016 (the effective date part 51. AGENCY: Federal Aviation
of this AD), whichever occurs first. (2) You must use this service information Administration (FAA), Department of
Repetitively thereafter ultrasound inspect the as applicable to do the actions required by Transportation (DOT).
attach fittings every 600 hours TIS or 36 this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
months, whichever occurs first, and any time ACTION: Final rule.
(i) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–
a hard landing or overweight landing occurs. 2 Service Bulletin No. 105/32–017, dated
(4) Before further flight after any inspection SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
September 29, 2015. airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
required in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD, if no
signs of cracks are found, lubricate the pin (ii) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU– Dassault Aviation Model FALCON 2000,
assembly attached to the main landing gear 2 Service Bulletin No. 243, dated June 30, FALCON 2000EX, MYSTERE–FALCON
oleo attach fitting as specified in Mitsubishi 2015. 900, and FALCON 900EX airplanes.
Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service News (iii) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU– This AD was prompted by reports of a
JCAB T.C.: No. 171, FAA T.C.: No. 124/32– 2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 176, FAA co-pilot sliding aft on his seat during
011, dated April 27, 2012, and Mitsubishi T.C.: No. 128/32–013, dated July 18, 2013.
take-off at rotation. This AD requires
Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service News (iv) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–
replacement of certain springs installed
JCAB T.C.: No. 176, FAA T.C.: No. 128/32– 2 Service News JCAB T.C.: No. 171, FAA
013, dated July 18, 2013. on the pilot and co-pilot seats. We are
T.C.: No. 124/32–011, dated April 27, 2012.
(5) Before further flight after any inspection issuing this AD to prevent fatigue wear,
(3) For Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd
required in paragraph (f)(1) and (f)(3) of this which, if not corrected, could cause the
service information identified in this AD,
AD where cracks are found, replace the main seat to slide and the pilot or co-pilot to
contact Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
landing gear oleo upper attach fittings lose contact with the controls, leading to
America, Inc., c/o Turbine Aircraft Services,
following the INSTRUCTIONS section in an inadvertent input on the flight
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Inc., 4550 Jimmy Doolittle Drive, Addison,
Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 248–3108, ext.
control commands during take-off or
Service Bulletin No. 243, dated June 30, climb, possibly resulting in loss of
2015, and the INSTRUCTIONS sections in 209; fax: (972) 248–3321; Internet: http://mu-
2aircraft.com. control of the airplane.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2
Service Bulletin No. 105/32–017, dated (4) You may view this service information DATES: This AD becomes effective June
September 29, 2015, as applicable. After at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 6, 2016.
replacement, continue with the repetitive Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For The Director of the Federal Register
ultrasound inspection requirements of information on the availability of this approved the incorporation by reference
paragraph (f)(3) and lubrication requirements material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. In of certain publications listed in this AD
of paragraph (f)(4) of this AD. addition, you can access this service as of June 6, 2016.
(g) Other FAA AD Provisions information on the Internet at http:// ADDRESSES: For service information
www.regulations.gov by searching for and identified in this final rule, contact
The following provisions also apply to this
AD: locating Docket No. FAA–2016–1363. Dassault Falcon Jet Corporation,
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (5) You may view this service information Teterboro Airport, P.O. Box 2000, South
(AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, that is incorporated by reference at the Hackensack, NJ 07606; telephone 201–
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs National Archives and Records 440–6700; Internet http://
for this AD, if requested using the procedures Administration (NARA). For information on www.dassaultfalcon.com. You may
found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to the availability of this material at NARA, call view this referenced service information
ATTN: Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Engineer, FAA, ASW–143 (c/o San Antonio www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, San
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
locations.html. Renton, WA. For information on the
Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308–
3365; fax: (210) 308–3370; email: Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April availability of this material at the FAA,
andrew.mcanaul@faa.gov. Before using any 14, 2016. call 425–227–1221. It is also available
approved AMOC on any airplane to which Robert P. Busto, on the Internet at http://
the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, www.regulations.gov by searching for
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight and locating Docket No. FAA–2014–
Aircraft Certification Service.
Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking 0657.
a PI, your local FSDO. [FR Doc. 2016–09239 Filed 4–29–16; 8:45 am]
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Examining the AD Docket
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES

in this AD to obtain corrective actions from You may examine the AD docket on
a manufacturer or other source, use these
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective
the Internet at http://
actions are considered FAA-approved if they www.regulations.gov by searching for
are approved by the State of Design Authority and locating Docket No. FAA–2014–
(or their delegated agent). You are required 0657; or in person at the Docket
to assure the product is airworthy before it Management Facility between 9 a.m.
is returned to service. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,

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Document Created: 2016-04-30 13:34:55
Document Modified: 2016-04-30 13:34:55
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 June 6, 2016.
Contact		Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, ASW-143 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308-3365; fax: (210) 308-3370; email: [email protected]
FR Citation		81 FR 26097
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
81 FR 26097 - Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 84 (May 2, 2016)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
