81_FR_72708 81 FR 72505 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters) Helicopters

81 FR 72505 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters) Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 203 (October 20, 2016)

Page Range72505-72507
FR Document2016-24860

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters with certain duplex trim actuators installed. This AD requires repetitively inspecting the lateral and longitudinal trim actuator output levers for correct torque of the nuts. This AD was prompted by a design review that indicated the attachment screws can become loose under certain circumstances. These actions are intended to prevent the loss of an attachment screw, which could result in movement of the output lever in an axial direction, contact of a bolt connecting the control rod to an output lever with the actuator housing, and subsequent loss of helicopter control.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 203 (Thursday, October 20, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 203 (Thursday, October 20, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 72505-72507]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-24860]


=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0578; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-048-AD; 
Amendment 39-18684; AD 2016-21-03]
RIN 2120-AA64


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

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus 
Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters with certain duplex trim 
actuators installed. This AD requires repetitively inspecting the 
lateral and longitudinal trim actuator output levers for correct torque 
of the nuts. This AD was prompted by a design review that indicated the 
attachment screws can become loose under certain circumstances. These 
actions are intended to prevent the loss of an attachment screw, which 
could result in movement of the output lever in an axial direction, 
contact of a bolt connecting the control rod to an output lever with 
the actuator housing, and subsequent loss of helicopter control.

DATES: This AD is effective November 25, 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

[[Page 72506]]

Operations Office, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Wilbanks, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 
(817) 222-5110; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    On August 18, 2014, at 79 FR 48696, 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 
Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters with a lateral duplex trim actuator, 
part number (P/N) 418-00878-050 or P/N 418-00878-051, or a longitudinal 
duplex trim actuator, P/N 418-00878-000 or P/N 418-00878-001, 
installed. The NPRM proposed to require repetitively inspecting the 
lateral and longitudinal trim actuator output levers for correct torque 
of the nuts. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent a loose 
attachment screw, which could result in movement of the output lever in 
an axial direction, contact of a bolt connecting the control rod to an 
output lever with the actuator housing, and subsequent loss of 
helicopter control.
    The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2013-0182, dated August 12, 2013, 
issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of 
the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus 
Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters with a lateral duplex trim 
actuator, P/N 418-00878-050 or P/N 418-00878-051, or with a 
longitudinal duplex trim actuator, P/N 418-00878-000 or P/N 418-00878-
001. EASA advises that under unfavorable circumstances, a total loss of 
the trim actuator output lever attachment screw could lead to a 
restriction of the lateral and longitudinal control range. According to 
EASA, without the attachment screw, the output lever can move in the 
axial direction. This condition, if not detected, could cause the bolt 
that connects the control rod to the output lever to make contact with 
actuator housing, possibly resulting in reduced control of the 
helicopter.
    To prevent this condition, EASA requires an initial torque check of 
the lateral and longitudinal trim actuator output lever attachment 
screws, the application of a torque marking, and repetitive inspections 
for correct torque thereafter. The EASA AD's requirements are 
considered an interim solution, pending a terminating modification.
    Since the issuance of EASA AD No. 2013-0182, Eurocopter Deutschland 
GmbH has changed its name to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD, but we received no comments on the NPRM (79 FR 48696, August 
18, 2014).

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
Germany and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with Germany, EASA, its technical 
representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in 
the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all 
information provided by EASA 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.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD to be an interim action because Airbus 
Helicopters is currently developing a modification that will address 
the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is 
developed, approved and available, we might consider additional 
rulemaking.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters) Alert Service 
Bulletin MBB-BK117 C-2-67A-020, Revision 0, dated June 18, 2013 (ASB), 
which advises of a design review that showed that a loss of the 
attachment screw of the trim actuator output lever could restrict the 
lateral and longitudinal control range. The ASB consequently calls for 
an initial torque check and application of torque markings of the self-
locking nuts, and subsequent repetitive inspections to maintain the 
proper torque.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 100 helicopters of U.S. Registry 
and that labor costs average $85 per work-hour. Based on these 
estimates, we expect the following costs:
     Applying torque and torque marking to the lateral and 
longitudinal trim actuator output levers requires 1 work-hour for a 
labor cost of $85. No parts are needed, so the cost for the U.S. fleet 
totals $8,500.
     Visually inspecting for correct torque requires 0.5 work-
hour for a labor cost of about $43. No parts are needed, so the total 
cost for the U.S. fleet is $4,300 per inspection cycle.

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,

[[Page 72507]]

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):

2016-21-03 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously 
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters) Helicopters: 
Amendment 39-18684; Docket No. FAA-2014-0578; Directorate Identifier 
2013-SW-048-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 
helicopters with a lateral duplex trim actuator, part number (P/N) 
418-00878-050 or P/N 418-00878-051, or a longitudinal duplex trim 
actuator, P/N 418-00878-000 or P/N 418-00878-001, installed, 
certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as loss of a trim actuator 
output lever attachment screw. This condition could result in 
movement of the output lever in an axial direction, contact of a 
bolt connecting the control rod to an output lever with the actuator 
housing, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective November 25, 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 300 hours time-in-service (TIS), apply a torque of 
31.0 inch-pounds (3.5 Nm) to the self-locking nut (nut) on each 
lateral and longitudinal trim actuator output lever and apply a 
torque marking between the nut and the screw.
    (2) Thereafter at intervals not to exceed 400 hours TIS, 
visually inspect each nut on each lateral and longitudinal trim 
actuator output lever to determine whether the torque is at 31.0 
inch-pounds (3.5 Nm). If the torque is not at 31.0 inch-pounds, 
apply a torque of 31.0 inch-pounds (3.5 Nm), remove the previous 
torque marking, and apply a new torque marking between the nut and 
the screw.
    (3) Do not install a lateral duplex trim actuator, part number 
(P/N) 418-00878-050 or P/N 418-00878-051, or a longitudinal duplex 
trim actuator, P/N 418-00878-000 or P/N 418-00878-001, on any 
helicopter unless each nut has been inspected for proper torque in 
accordance with the requirements of this AD.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Wilbanks, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, 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 Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117 C-2-67A-020, 
Revision 0, dated June 18, 2013, which is not incorporated by 
reference, contains additional information about the subject of this 
AD. 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 
a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional 
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Room 6N-321, Fort 
Worth, TX 76177.
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in the European Aviation 
Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013-0182, dated August 12, 2013. You may view 
the EASA AD on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket 
No. FAA-2014-0578.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6700, Rotorcraft 
Flight Control.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 5, 2016.
Lance T. Gant,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-24860 Filed 10-19-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                                       Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 203 / Thursday, October 20, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                                           72505

                                                  compact fluorescent lamps, or integrated LED                              3.3. For single base OLED and non-                        rated input voltage. For non-integrated LED
                                                  lamps.                                                                 integrated LED lamps, position a lamp in                     lamps, operate the lamp at the manufacturer-
                                                    2. Definitions:                                                      either the base-up and base-down orientation                 declared input voltage and current.
                                                    Measured initial input power means the                               throughout testing. Test an equal number of                    3.5. Operate the lamp at the maximum
                                                  input power to the lamp, measured after the                            lamps in the sample in the base-up and base-                 input power. If multiple modes occur at the
                                                  lamp is stabilized and seasoned (if                                    down orientations, except that, if the
                                                  applicable), and expressed in watts (W).                               manufacturer restricts the orientation, test all             same maximum input power (such as
                                                    Measured initial lumen output means the                              of the units in the sample in the                            variable CCT or CRI), the manufacturer may
                                                  lumen output of the lamp, measured after the                           manufacturer-specified orientation. For                      select any of these modes for testing;
                                                  lamp is stabilized and seasoned (if                                    double base OLED and non-integrated LED                      however, all measurements must be taken at
                                                  applicable), and expressed in lumens (lm).                             lamps, test all units in the horizontal                      the same selected mode. The manufacturer
                                                    Power factor means the measured initial                              orientation except that, if the manufacturer                 must indicate in the test report which mode
                                                  input power (watts) divided by the product                             restricts the orientation, test all of the units             was selected for testing and include detail
                                                  of the input voltage (volts) and the input                             in the sample in the manufacturer-specified                  such that another laboratory could operate
                                                  current (amps) measured at the same time as                            orientation.
                                                                                                                                                                                      the lamp in the same mode.
                                                  the initial input power.                                                  3.4. Operate the lamp at the rated voltage
                                                    3. Active Mode Test Procedures                                       throughout testing. For lamps with multiple                    3.6. To measure initial lumen output, input
                                                    3.1. Take measurements at full light                                 rated voltages including 120 volts, operate                  power, input voltage, and input current use
                                                  output.                                                                the lamp at 120 volts. If a lamp is not rated                the test procedures in the table in this
                                                    3.2. Do not use a goniophotometer.                                   for 120 volts, operate the lamp at the highest               section.

                                                                                              TABLE 3.1—REFERENCES TO INDUSTRY STANDARD TEST PROCEDURES
                                                                                              Lamp type                                                                             Referenced test procedure

                                                  General service incandescent lamps .......................................................                 Appendix R to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430.
                                                  Compact fluorescent lamps ......................................................................           Appendix W to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430.
                                                  Integrated LED lamps ...............................................................................       Appendix BB to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430.
                                                  Other incandescent lamps that are not reflector lamps ...........................                          IES LM–45–15, sections 4–6, and section 7.1.*
                                                  Other incandescent lamps that are reflector lamps .................................                        IES LM–20–13, sections 4–6, and section 8.*
                                                  Other fluorescent lamps ...........................................................................        IES LM–9–09–DD, sections 4–6, and section 7.5.*
                                                  OLED lamps .............................................................................................   IES LM–79–08–DD, sections 1.3 (except 1.3f), 2.0, 3.0, 5.0, 7.0, 8.0,
                                                                                                                                                               9.1 and 9.2.*
                                                  Non-integrated LED lamps .......................................................................           IES LM–79–08–DD, sections 1.3 (except 1.3f), 2.0, 3.0, 5.0, 7.0, 8.0,
                                                                                                                                                               9.1 and 9.2.*
                                                     * Incorporated by reference, see § 430.3.


                                                     3.7. Determine initial lamp efficacy by                             DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                                 movement of the output lever in an
                                                  dividing the measured initial lumen output                                                                                          axial direction, contact of a bolt
                                                  (lumens) by the measured initial input power                           Federal Aviation Administration                              connecting the control rod to an output
                                                  (watts).                                                                                                                            lever with the actuator housing, and
                                                     3.8. Determine power factor by dividing                             14 CFR Part 39                                               subsequent loss of helicopter control.
                                                  the measured initial input power (watts) by
                                                                                                                         [Docket No. FAA–2014–0578; Directorate                       DATES: This AD is effective November
                                                  the product of the measured input voltage
                                                  (volts) and measured input current (amps).                             Identifier 2013–SW–048–AD; Amendment                         25, 2016.
                                                     4. Standby Mode Test Procedure                                      39–18684; AD 2016–21–03]                                     ADDRESSES: For service information
                                                     4.1. Measure standby mode power only for                            RIN 2120–AA64                                                identified in this final rule, contact
                                                  lamps that are capable of standby mode                                                                                              Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum
                                                  operation.                                                             Airworthiness Directives; Airbus                             Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
                                                     4.2. Maintain lamp orientation as specified                         Helicopters Deutschland GmbH                                 telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–
                                                  in section 3.3 of this appendix.                                       (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland                           0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at http://
                                                     4.3. Connect the lamp to the manufacturer-                                                                                       www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub.
                                                                                                                         GmbH) (Airbus Helicopters)
                                                  specified wireless control network (if                                                                                              You may review the referenced service
                                                  applicable) and configure the lamp in
                                                                                                                         Helicopters
                                                                                                                                                                                      information at the FAA, Office of the
                                                  standby mode by sending a signal to the lamp                           AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                                    Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
                                                  instructing it to have zero light output. Lamp                         Administration (FAA), DOT.                                   10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321,
                                                  must remain connected to the network
                                                  throughout testing.
                                                                                                                         ACTION: Final rule.                                          Fort Worth, TX 76177.
                                                     4.4. Operate the lamp at the rated voltage                          SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                             Examining the AD Docket
                                                  throughout testing. For lamps with multiple
                                                                                                                         airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus                         You may examine the AD docket on
                                                  rated voltages including 120 volts, operate
                                                  the lamp at 120 volts. If a lamp is not rated
                                                                                                                         Helicopters Model MBB–BK 117 C–2                             the Internet at http://
                                                  for 120 volts, operate the lamp at the highest                         helicopters with certain duplex trim                         www.regulations.gov or in person at the
                                                  rated input voltage.                                                   actuators installed. This AD requires                        Docket Operations Office between 9
                                                     4.5. Stabilize the lamp prior to                                    repetitively inspecting the lateral and                      a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES




                                                  measurement as specified in section 5 of IEC                           longitudinal trim actuator output levers                     Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
                                                  62301–DD (incorporated by reference; see                               for correct torque of the nuts. This AD                      docket contains this AD, the European
                                                  § 430.3).                                                              was prompted by a design review that                         Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the
                                                     4.6. Measure the standby mode power in                              indicated the attachment screws can                          economic evaluation, any comments
                                                  watts as specified in section 5 of IEC 62301–                          become loose under certain                                   received, and other information. The
                                                  DD (incorporated by reference; see § 430.3).                           circumstances. These actions are                             street address for the Docket Operations
                                                  [FR Doc. 2016–25180 Filed 10–19–16; 8:45 am]                           intended to prevent the loss of an                           Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S.
                                                  BILLING CODE 6450–01–P                                                 attachment screw, which could result in                      Department of Transportation, Docket


                                             VerDate Sep<11>2014        15:55 Oct 19, 2016       Jkt 241001      PO 00000      Frm 00025       Fmt 4700      Sfmt 4700   E:\FR\FM\20OCR1.SGM   20OCR1


                                                  72506            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 203 / Thursday, October 20, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                                  Operations Office, M–30, West Building                  thereafter. The EASA AD’s requirements                parts are needed, so the cost for the U.S.
                                                  Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200                        are considered an interim solution,                   fleet totals $8,500.
                                                  New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                      pending a terminating modification.                      • Visually inspecting for correct
                                                  DC 20590.                                                 Since the issuance of EASA AD No.                   torque requires 0.5 work-hour for a labor
                                                  FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt                   2013–0182, Eurocopter Deutschland                     cost of about $43. No parts are needed,
                                                  Wilbanks, Aviation Safety Engineer,                     GmbH has changed its name to Airbus                   so the total cost for the U.S. fleet is
                                                  Regulations and Policy Group,                           Helicopters Deutschland GmbH.                         $4,300 per inspection cycle.
                                                  Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101                      Comments                                              Authority for This Rulemaking
                                                  Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort
                                                                                                            We gave the public the opportunity to                  Title 49 of the United States Code
                                                  Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–
                                                                                                          participate in developing this AD, but                specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
                                                  5110; email matt.wilbanks@faa.gov.
                                                                                                                                                                rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
                                                  SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                              we received no comments on the NPRM
                                                                                                                                                                section 106, describes the authority of
                                                                                                          (79 FR 48696, August 18, 2014).
                                                  Discussion                                                                                                    the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
                                                                                                          FAA’s Determination                                   Aviation Programs, describes in more
                                                     On August 18, 2014, at 79 FR 48696,                                                                        detail the scope of the Agency’s
                                                  the Federal Register published our                        These helicopters have been approved
                                                                                                                                                                authority.
                                                  notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM),                   by the aviation authority of Germany                     We are issuing this rulemaking under
                                                  which proposed to amend 14 CFR part                     and are approved for operation in the                 the authority described in Subtitle VII,
                                                  39 by adding an AD that would apply                     United States. Pursuant to our bilateral              Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
                                                  to Airbus Helicopters Model MBB–BK                      agreement with Germany, EASA, its                     ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
                                                  117 C–2 helicopters with a lateral                      technical representative, has notified us             section, Congress charges the FAA with
                                                  duplex trim actuator, part number (P/N)                 of the unsafe condition described in the              promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
                                                  418–00878–050 or P/N 418–00878–051,                     EASA AD. We are issuing this AD                       air commerce by prescribing regulations
                                                  or a longitudinal duplex trim actuator,                 because we evaluated all information                  for practices, methods, and procedures
                                                  P/N 418–00878–000 or P/N 418–00878–                     provided by EASA and determined the                   the Administrator finds necessary for
                                                  001, installed. The NPRM proposed to                    unsafe condition exists and is likely to              safety in air commerce. This regulation
                                                  require repetitively inspecting the                     exist or develop on other helicopters of              is within the scope of that authority
                                                  lateral and longitudinal trim actuator                  these same type designs and that air                  because it addresses an unsafe condition
                                                  output levers for correct torque of the                 safety and the public interest require                that is likely to exist or develop on
                                                  nuts. The proposed requirements were                    adopting the AD requirements as                       helicopters identified in this rulemaking
                                                  intended to prevent a loose attachment                  proposed.                                             action.
                                                  screw, which could result in movement                   Interim Action
                                                  of the output lever in an axial direction,                                                                    Regulatory Findings
                                                  contact of a bolt connecting the control                  We consider this AD to be an interim                  This AD will not have federalism
                                                  rod to an output lever with the actuator                action because Airbus Helicopters is                  implications under Executive Order
                                                  housing, and subsequent loss of                         currently developing a modification that              13132. This AD will not have a
                                                  helicopter control.                                     will address the unsafe condition                     substantial direct effect on the States, on
                                                     The NPRM was prompted by AD No.                      identified in this AD. Once this                      the relationship between the national
                                                  2013–0182, dated August 12, 2013,                       modification is developed, approved                   government and the States, or on the
                                                  issued by EASA, which is the Technical                  and available, we might consider                      distribution of power and
                                                  Agent for the Member States of the                      additional rulemaking.                                responsibilities among the various
                                                  European Union, to correct an unsafe                                                                          levels of government.
                                                                                                          Related Service Information                             For the reasons discussed above, I
                                                  condition for Airbus Helicopters Model
                                                  MBB–BK 117 C–2 helicopters with a                         We reviewed Eurocopter (now Airbus                  certify that this AD:
                                                  lateral duplex trim actuator, P/N 418–                  Helicopters) Alert Service Bulletin                     (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                                  00878–050 or P/N 418–00878–051, or                      MBB–BK117 C–2–67A–020, Revision 0,                    action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                                  with a longitudinal duplex trim                         dated June 18, 2013 (ASB), which                        (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
                                                  actuator, P/N 418–00878–000 or P/N                      advises of a design review that showed                DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                                  418–00878–001. EASA advises that                        that a loss of the attachment screw of                (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
                                                                                                          the trim actuator output lever could                    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
                                                  under unfavorable circumstances, a total
                                                                                                          restrict the lateral and longitudinal                 in Alaska to the extent that it justifies
                                                  loss of the trim actuator output lever
                                                                                                          control range. The ASB consequently                   making a regulatory distinction; and
                                                  attachment screw could lead to a
                                                                                                          calls for an initial torque check and                   (4) Will not have a significant
                                                  restriction of the lateral and
                                                                                                          application of torque markings of the                 economic impact, positive or negative,
                                                  longitudinal control range. According to
                                                                                                          self-locking nuts, and subsequent                     on a substantial number of small entities
                                                  EASA, without the attachment screw,
                                                                                                          repetitive inspections to maintain the                under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                                  the output lever can move in the axial
                                                                                                          proper torque.                                        Flexibility Act.
                                                  direction. This condition, if not                                                                               We prepared an economic evaluation
                                                  detected, could cause the bolt that                     Costs of Compliance                                   of the estimated costs to comply with
                                                  connects the control rod to the output                                                                        this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
                                                  lever to make contact with actuator                        We estimate that this AD affects 100
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES




                                                  housing, possibly resulting in reduced                  helicopters of U.S. Registry and that                 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                                  control of the helicopter.                              labor costs average $85 per work-hour.                  Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                                     To prevent this condition, EASA                      Based on these estimates, we expect the               safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                                  requires an initial torque check of the                 following costs:                                      Safety.
                                                  lateral and longitudinal trim actuator                     • Applying torque and torque
                                                  output lever attachment screws, the                     marking to the lateral and longitudinal               Adoption of the Amendment
                                                  application of a torque marking, and                    trim actuator output levers requires 1                  Accordingly, under the authority
                                                  repetitive inspections for correct torque               work-hour for a labor cost of $85. No                 delegated to me by the Administrator,


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                                                                   Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 203 / Thursday, October 20, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                       72507

                                                  the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                        (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance                 SUMMARY:    We are superseding
                                                  follows:                                                (AMOCs)                                               Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012–20–
                                                                                                             (1) The Manager, Safety Management                 07 for certain Airbus Model A318,
                                                  PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                   Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this                A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes.
                                                  DIRECTIVES                                              AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Wilbanks,             AD 2012–20–07 required revising the
                                                                                                          Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and             Airworthiness Limitations section (ALS)
                                                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                 Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,
                                                                                                          10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort
                                                                                                                                                                of the Instructions for Continued
                                                  continues to read as follows:
                                                                                                          Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110;            Airworthiness (ICA) to incorporate new
                                                      Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.                                                                limitations for fuel tank systems, and
                                                                                                          email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
                                                  § 39.13   [Amended]                                        (2) For operations conducted under a 14            revising the maintenance program to
                                                                                                          CFR part 119 operating certificate or under           incorporate revised fuel maintenance
                                                  ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                   14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that            and inspection tasks. This new AD
                                                  the following new airworthiness                         you notify your principal inspector, or               requires revising the maintenance or
                                                  directive (AD):                                         lacking a principal inspector, the manager of         inspection program to incorporate
                                                  2016–21–03 Airbus Helicopters                           the local flight standards district office or         revised fuel airworthiness limitations.
                                                      Deutschland GmbH (Previously                        certificate holding district office, before
                                                                                                          operating any aircraft complying with this
                                                                                                                                                                This AD was prompted by Airbus
                                                      Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) (Airbus                                                                      issuing more restrictive maintenance
                                                      Helicopters) Helicopters: Amendment                 AD through an AMOC.
                                                                                                                                                                requirements and/or airworthiness
                                                      39–18684; Docket No. FAA–2014–0578;                 (g) Additional Information
                                                      Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–048–AD.
                                                                                                                                                                limitations. We are issuing this AD to
                                                                                                             (1) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin MBB–         prevent the potential of ignition sources
                                                  (a) Applicability                                       BK117 C–2–67A–020, Revision 0, dated June             inside fuel tanks, which, in combination
                                                     This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters                18, 2013, which is not incorporated by                with flammable fuel vapors, could result
                                                  Model MBB–BK 117 C–2 helicopters with a                 reference, contains additional information            in a fuel tank explosion and consequent
                                                  lateral duplex trim actuator, part number (P/           about the subject of this AD. For service
                                                                                                          information identified in this final rule,
                                                                                                                                                                loss of the airplane.
                                                  N) 418–00878–050 or P/N 418–00878–051, or
                                                                                                          contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N.             DATES: This AD is effective November
                                                  a longitudinal duplex trim actuator, P/N 418–
                                                  00878–000 or P/N 418–00878–001, installed,              Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;                 25, 2016.
                                                  certificated in any category.                           telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323;              The Director of the Federal Register
                                                                                                          fax (972) 641–3775; or at http://                     approved the incorporation by reference
                                                  (b) Unsafe Condition                                    www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You                of a certain publication listed in this AD
                                                     This AD defines the unsafe condition as              may review a copy of the service information          as of November 25, 2016.
                                                  loss of a trim actuator output lever                    at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
                                                                                                                                                                   The Director of the Federal Register
                                                  attachment screw. This condition could                  Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway,
                                                                                                          Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.                    approved the incorporation by reference
                                                  result in movement of the output lever in an
                                                  axial direction, contact of a bolt connecting              (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in         of a certain other publication listed in
                                                  the control rod to an output lever with the             the European Aviation Agency (EASA) AD                this AD as of November 21, 2012 (77 FR
                                                  actuator housing, and subsequent loss of                No. 2013–0182, dated August 12, 2013. You             63716, October 17, 2012).
                                                  control of the helicopter.                              may view the EASA AD on the Internet at                  The Director of the Federal Register
                                                                                                          http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No.              approved the incorporation by reference
                                                  (c) Effective Date                                      FAA–2014–0578.                                        of a certain other publication listed in
                                                     This AD becomes effective November 25,                                                                     this AD as of December 14, 2009 (74 FR
                                                  2016.                                                   (h) Subject
                                                                                                            Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)             62219, November 27, 2009).
                                                  (d) Compliance                                          Code: 6700, Rotorcraft Flight Control.                   The Director of the Federal Register
                                                    You are responsible for performing each                                                                     approved the incorporation by reference
                                                                                                            Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 5,
                                                  action required by this AD within the                                                                         of a certain other publication listed in
                                                  specified compliance time unless it has                 2016.
                                                                                                                                                                this AD as of August 28, 2007 (72 FR
                                                  already been accomplished prior to that time.           Lance T. Gant,
                                                                                                                                                                40222, July 24, 2007).
                                                                                                          Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft
                                                  (e) Required Actions                                                                                          ADDRESSES: For service information
                                                                                                          Certification Service.
                                                     (1) Within 300 hours time-in-service (TIS),                                                                identified in this final rule, contact
                                                                                                          [FR Doc. 2016–24860 Filed 10–19–16; 8:45 am]
                                                  apply a torque of 31.0 inch-pounds (3.5 Nm)                                                                   Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1
                                                                                                          BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                  to the self-locking nut (nut) on each lateral                                                                 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707
                                                  and longitudinal trim actuator output lever                                                                   Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5
                                                  and apply a torque marking between the nut                                                                    61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
                                                  and the screw.                                          DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                                                                                                                                account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
                                                     (2) Thereafter at intervals not to exceed 400
                                                                                                          Federal Aviation Administration                       Internet http://www.airbus.com. You
                                                  hours TIS, visually inspect each nut on each
                                                  lateral and longitudinal trim actuator output                                                                 may view this referenced service
                                                  lever to determine whether the torque is at             14 CFR Part 39                                        information at the FAA, Transport
                                                  31.0 inch-pounds (3.5 Nm). If the torque is                                                                   Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
                                                  not at 31.0 inch-pounds, apply a torque of              [Docket No. FAA–2016–5589; Directorate                SW., Renton, WA. For information on
                                                                                                          Identifier 2014–NM–252–AD; Amendment
                                                  31.0 inch-pounds (3.5 Nm), remove the                                                                         the availability of this material at the
                                                  previous torque marking, and apply a new                39–18678; AD 2016–20–12]
                                                                                                                                                                FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also
                                                  torque marking between the nut and the                  RIN 2120–AA64                                         available on the Internet at http://
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES




                                                  screw.                                                                                                        www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                     (3) Do not install a lateral duplex trim             Airworthiness Directives; Airbus                      and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
                                                  actuator, part number (P/N) 418–00878–050               Airplanes
                                                  or P/N 418–00878–051, or a longitudinal                                                                       5589.
                                                  duplex trim actuator, P/N 418–00878–000 or              AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                             Examining the AD Docket
                                                  P/N 418–00878–001, on any helicopter                    Administration (FAA), Department of
                                                  unless each nut has been inspected for                  Transportation (DOT).                                   You may examine the AD docket on
                                                  proper torque in accordance with the                                                                          the Internet at http://
                                                                                                          ACTION: Final rule.
                                                  requirements of this AD.                                                                                      www.regulations.gov by searching for


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Document Created: 2016-10-21 09:59:18
Document Modified: 2016-10-21 09:59:18
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective November 25, 2016.
ContactMatt Wilbanks, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected]
FR Citation81 FR 72505 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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