82_FR_12348 82 FR 12308 - Airworthiness Directives; The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation

82 FR 12308 - Airworthiness Directives; The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 40 (March 2, 2017)

Page Range12308-12310
FR Document2017-03950

We propose to supersede airworthiness directive (AD) 2015-08- 51 for Enstrom Helicopter Corporation (Enstrom) Model F-28A, 280, F- 28C, F-28C-2, F-28C-2R, 280C, F-28F, F-28F-R, 280F, 280FX, and 480 helicopters. AD 2015-08-51 requires an inspection of the main rotor spindle (spindle) and reporting the inspection results to the FAA. This proposed AD was prompted by additional reports of cracked spindles and would require establishing a life limit and a recurring inspection. These proposed actions are intended to prevent the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 40 (Thursday, March 2, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 40 (Thursday, March 2, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 12308-12310]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-03950]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0141; Directorate Identifier 2016-SW-067-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to supersede airworthiness directive (AD) 2015-08-
51 for Enstrom Helicopter Corporation (Enstrom) Model F-28A, 280, F-
28C, F-28C-2, F-28C-2R, 280C, F-28F, F-28F-R, 280F, 280FX, and 480 
helicopters. AD 2015-08-51 requires an inspection of the main rotor 
spindle (spindle) and reporting the inspection results to the FAA. This 
proposed AD was prompted by additional reports of cracked spindles and 
would require establishing a life limit and a recurring inspection. 
These proposed actions are intended to prevent the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 1, 2017.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0141; or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the economic evaluation, any comments 
received and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Operations Office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. 
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
    For service information identified in this proposed rule, contact 
Enstrom Helicopter Corporation, 2209 22nd Street, Menominee, MI; 
telephone (906) 863-1200; fax (906) 863-6821; or at 
www.enstromhelicopter.com. You may review service information at the 
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood 
Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Monica Nemecek, Continued Operational 
Safety Program Manager, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, Small 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300 East Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 
(847) 294-7618; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to 
the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might 
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To 
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters 
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed 
electronically, commenters should submit only one time.
    We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as 
a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel 
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we 
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for 
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has 
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. 
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.

Discussion

    On May 8, 2015, we issued AD 2015-08-51, Amendment 39-18160 (80 FR 
28172, May 18, 2015), which was sent previously as an emergency AD to 
all known U.S. owners and operators of Enstrom Model F-28A, 280, F-28C, 
F-28C-2, F-28C-2R, 280C, F-28F, F-28F-R, 280F, 280FX, and 480 
helicopters. AD 2015-08-51 applies to helicopters with a spindle part 
number (P/N) 28-14282-11 or 28-14282-13 installed and requires 
conducting a one-time magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of the spindle 
for cracks and reporting the inspection results to the FAA. AD 2015-08-
51 was prompted by a fatal accident and reports of spindles with 
cracks. The actions of AD 2015-08-51 are intended to detect a crack in 
a spindle and prevent loss of a main rotor blade and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

Actions Since AD 2015-08-51 Was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2015-08-51, we received additional reports of 
cracked spindles. Additionally, Enstrom revised its service information 
to reduce the time for the initial MPI from 3,500 hours TIS to 1,500 
hours TIS and extend the compliance time for a recurring MPI of the 
spindles from 300 hours TIS to 500 hours TIS. Based on a review of the 
in-service data and a fatigue analysis, the FAA determined a life limit 
and repetitive MPIs were necessary to reduce the risk of a crack 
developing in a spindle. We also determined the reporting requirement 
in AD 2015-08-51 is no longer necessary.
    We issued AD 2015-08-51 as interim action; this proposed AD would 
provide long-term requirements to prevent a spindle failure. 
Accordingly, this

[[Page 12309]]

proposed AD would require an MPI of the spindle every 500 hours TIS 
until the spindle reaches its new life limit of 1,500 hours TIS. These 
proposed actions are intended to detect a crack in a spindle and 
prevent loss of a main rotor blade and subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type 
designs.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed Enstrom Service Directive Bulletin No. 0119, Revision 
3, dated June 24, 2016, for Model F-28A, F-28C, F-28F, 280, 280C, 280F, 
and 280FX helicopters with a spindle P/N 28-14282-11 or 28-14282-13. We 
also reviewed Enstrom Service Directive Bulletin No. T-050, Revision 3, 
dated June 24, 2016, for Model 480 helicopters, serial numbers 5001 
through 5004 and 5006, and with a spindle P/N 28-14282-13, except those 
aircraft modified with tension-torsion straps. Both service directive 
bulletins specify sending the spindle to Enstrom for an MPI before the 
spindle reaches 1,500 hours time-in-service (TIS), or within 5 hours 
TIS for those spindles with 1,500 or more hours TIS. Thereafter, the 
service directive bulletins specify returning the spindle to Enstrom 
for an MPI every 500 hours.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require establishing a life limit of 1,500 
hours TIS for spindle P/Ns 28-14282-11 and 28-14282-13. This proposed 
AD would also require an initial and recurring MPI of the spindles.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    This proposed AD would require establishing a spindle life limit of 
1,500 hours TIS. The service information does not specify a life limit.
    This proposed AD would require that the MPI be conducted by a Level 
II or Level III inspector or equivalent. The service information 
specifies sending the spindle to Enstrom for an MPI.
    This proposed AD would require an initial MPI before further flight 
for a spindle with 500 or more hours TIS, unless an MPI has been done 
within the last 500 hours TIS. The service information specifies an 
initial MPI compliance time of within 5 hours TIS for a spindle with 
1,500 or more hours TIS.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 323 helicopters of 
U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs 
in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per 
work-hour. Inspecting the spindles would take about 15 work-hours for 
an estimated cost of $1,275 per helicopter and $411,825 for the U.S. 
fleet per inspection cycle. Replacing a cracked spindle would cost 
$8,164 for parts and no additional work-hours. Replacing a set of three 
spindles that have reached their life limit would take about 14 work-
hours and parts would cost $17,500 for a total cost of $18,690 per 
helicopter.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that 
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2015-08-51, Amendment 39-18160 (80 FR 28172, May 18, 2015), and adding 
the following new AD:

The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation (Enstrom): Docket No. FAA-2017-
0141; Directorate Identifier 2016-SW-067-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Enstrom Model F-28A, 280, F-28C, F-28C-2, F-
28C-2R, 280C, F-28F, F-28F-R, 280F, and 280FX helicopters, all 
serial numbers; and Enstrom Model 480 helicopters, serial numbers 
5001 through 5006; with a main rotor spindle (spindle) part number 
(P/N) 28-14282-11 or 28-14282-13, installed, certificated in any 
category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a spindle, 
which, if not detected, could result in loss of a main rotor blade 
and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2015-08-51, Amendment 39-18160 (80 FR 
28172, May 18, 2015).

(d) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by May 1, 2017.

(e) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been 
accomplished prior to that time.

(f) Required Actions

    (1) Before further flight, remove from service any spindle P/N 
28-14282-11 or 28-14282-13 that has 1,500 or more hours time-in-
service (TIS). If the hours TIS of a spindle is unknown, use the TIS 
of the helicopter.

[[Page 12310]]

Thereafter, remove from service any spindle P/N 28-14282-11 or 28-
14282-13 before accumulating 1,500 hours TIS.
    (2) For each spindle with 500 or more hours TIS, using the hours 
TIS of the helicopter if the hours TIS of the spindle is unknown:
    (i) Before further flight, unless already done within the last 
500 hours TIS, conduct a magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of the 
spindle for a crack, paying particular attention to the threaded 
portion of the spindle. The MPI of the spindle must be conducted by 
a Level II or Level III inspector qualified in the MPI in the 
Aeronautics Sector according to the EN4179 or NAS410 standard or 
equivalent. If there is a crack in the spindle, replace it with an 
airworthy spindle before further flight.
    (ii) Thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 hours TIS, repeat 
the MPI specified in paragraph (f)(2)(i) of this AD.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may 
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Monica Nemecek, 
Continued Operational Safety Program Manager, Chicago Aircraft 
Certification Office, Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300 East 
Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; (847) 294-7618; 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.
    (3) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2015-08-51, 
Amendment 39-18160 (80 FR 28172, May 18, 2015), are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding requirements in paragraph (f) of this 
AD.

(h) Additional Information

    Enstrom Service Directive Bulletin Nos. 0119 and T-050, both 
Revision 3 and both dated June 24, 2016, which are not incorporated 
by reference, contain additional information about the subject of 
this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Enstrom Helicopter Corporation, 2209 22nd Street, Menominee, MI; 
telephone (906) 863-1200; fax (906) 863-6821; or at 
www.enstromhelicopter.com. You may review the service information at 
the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6220, Main Rotor 
Head.


    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 16, 2017.
Lance T. Gant,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-03950 Filed 3-1-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                 12308                    Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 40 / Thursday, March 2, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement           DATES:  We must receive comments on                   proposal, explain the reason for any
                                                 in this AD to obtain corrective actions from            this proposed AD by May 1, 2017.                      recommended change, and include
                                                 a manufacturer or other source, use these                                                                     supporting data. To ensure the docket
                                                                                                         ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
                                                 actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective                                                                  does not contain duplicate comments,
                                                 actions are considered FAA-approved if they             any of the following methods:
                                                 are approved by the State of Design Authority             • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to                 commenters should send only one copy
                                                 (or their delegated agent). You are required            http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the                of written comments, or if comments are
                                                 to assure the product is airworthy before it            online instructions for sending your                  filed electronically, commenters should
                                                 is returned to service.                                 comments electronically.                              submit only one time.
                                                 (h) Related Information
                                                                                                           • Fax: 202–493–2251.                                   We will file in the docket all
                                                                                                           • Mail: Send comments to the U.S.                   comments that we receive, as well as a
                                                    Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety               Department of Transportation, Docket                  report summarizing each substantive
                                                 Agency (EASA) AD No.: 2017–0005, dated                                                                        public contact with FAA personnel
                                                                                                         Operations, M–30, West Building
                                                 January 10, 2017, for related information.                                                                    concerning this proposed rulemaking.
                                                 You may examine the MCAI on the Internet                Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
                                                                                                         New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                    Before acting on this proposal, we will
                                                 at http://www.regulations.gov by searching
                                                 for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–0156.              DC 20590–0001.                                        consider all comments we receive on or
                                                 For service information related to this AD,               • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the                     before the closing date for comments.
                                                 contact ZLIN AIRCRAFT a.s., Letiště 1887,             ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5                 We will consider comments filed after
                                                 765 02 Otrokovice, Czech Republic,                      p.m., Monday through Friday, except                   the comment period has closed if it is
                                                 telephone: +420 725 266 711; fax: +420 226              Federal holidays.                                     possible to do so without incurring
                                                 013 830; email: info@zlinaircraft.eu, Internet:                                                               expense or delay. We may change this
                                                 http://www.zlinaircraft.eu. You may review              Examining the AD Docket                               proposal in light of the comments we
                                                 copies of the referenced service information               You may examine the AD docket on                   receive.
                                                 at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901
                                                 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For
                                                                                                         the Internet at http://                               Discussion
                                                 information on the availability of this                 www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                                                                         and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–                       On May 8, 2015, we issued AD 2015–
                                                 material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148.
                                                                                                         0141; or in person at the Docket                      08–51, Amendment 39–18160 (80 FR
                                                   Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on                                                                         28172, May 18, 2015), which was sent
                                                 February 17, 2017.
                                                                                                         Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5
                                                                                                         p.m., Monday through Friday, except                   previously as an emergency AD to all
                                                 Pat Mullen,                                                                                                   known U.S. owners and operators of
                                                                                                         Federal holidays. The AD docket
                                                 Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,             contains this proposed AD, the                        Enstrom Model F–28A, 280, F–28C, F–
                                                 Aircraft Certification Service.                                                                               28C–2, F–28C–2R, 280C, F–28F, F–28F–
                                                                                                         economic evaluation, any comments
                                                 [FR Doc. 2017–03965 Filed 3–1–17; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                         received and other information. The                   R, 280F, 280FX, and 480 helicopters.
                                                 BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                  street address for the Docket Operations              AD 2015–08–51 applies to helicopters
                                                                                                         Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in                 with a spindle part number (P/N) 28–
                                                                                                         the ADDRESSES section. Comments will                  14282–11 or 28–14282–13 installed and
                                                 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            be available in the AD docket shortly                 requires conducting a one-time
                                                                                                         after receipt.                                        magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of
                                                 Federal Aviation Administration                                                                               the spindle for cracks and reporting the
                                                                                                            For service information identified in
                                                                                                         this proposed rule, contact Enstrom                   inspection results to the FAA. AD 2015–
                                                 14 CFR Part 39                                                                                                08–51 was prompted by a fatal accident
                                                                                                         Helicopter Corporation, 2209 22nd
                                                                                                         Street, Menominee, MI; telephone (906)                and reports of spindles with cracks. The
                                                 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0141; Directorate                                                                        actions of AD 2015–08–51 are intended
                                                 Identifier 2016–SW–067–AD]                              863–1200; fax (906) 863–6821; or at
                                                                                                         www.enstromhelicopter.com. You may                    to detect a crack in a spindle and
                                                 RIN 2120–AA64                                           review service information at the FAA,                prevent loss of a main rotor blade and
                                                                                                         Office of the Regional Counsel,                       subsequent loss of control of the
                                                 Airworthiness Directives; The Enstrom                   Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood                      helicopter.
                                                 Helicopter Corporation                                  Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX                    Actions Since AD 2015–08–51 Was
                                                                                                         76177.                                                Issued
                                                 AGENCY: Federal Aviation
                                                 Administration (FAA), DOT.                              FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                         Since we issued AD 2015–08–51, we
                                                 ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking                   Monica Nemecek, Continued                             received additional reports of cracked
                                                 (NPRM).                                                 Operational Safety Program Manager,                   spindles. Additionally, Enstrom revised
                                                                                                         Chicago Aircraft Certification Office,                its service information to reduce the
                                                 SUMMARY:    We propose to supersede                     Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300                 time for the initial MPI from 3,500 hours
                                                 airworthiness directive (AD) 2015–08–                   East Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018;               TIS to 1,500 hours TIS and extend the
                                                 51 for Enstrom Helicopter Corporation                   (847) 294–7618; email 9-AGL-CHI-ACO-                  compliance time for a recurring MPI of
                                                 (Enstrom) Model F–28A, 280, F–28C, F–                   COS@faa.gov.                                          the spindles from 300 hours TIS to 500
                                                 28C–2, F–28C–2R, 280C, F–28F, F–28F–                    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                            hours TIS. Based on a review of the in-
                                                 R, 280F, 280FX, and 480 helicopters.                                                                          service data and a fatigue analysis, the
                                                 AD 2015–08–51 requires an inspection                    Comments Invited                                      FAA determined a life limit and
pmangrum on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                 of the main rotor spindle (spindle) and                    We invite you to participate in this               repetitive MPIs were necessary to
                                                 reporting the inspection results to the                 rulemaking by submitting written                      reduce the risk of a crack developing in
                                                 FAA. This proposed AD was prompted                      comments, data, or views. We also                     a spindle. We also determined the
                                                 by additional reports of cracked                        invite comments relating to the                       reporting requirement in AD 2015–08–
                                                 spindles and would require establishing                 economic, environmental, energy, or                   51 is no longer necessary.
                                                 a life limit and a recurring inspection.                federalism impacts that might result                     We issued AD 2015–08–51 as interim
                                                 These proposed actions are intended to                  from adopting the proposals in this                   action; this proposed AD would provide
                                                 prevent the unsafe condition on these                   document. The most helpful comments                   long-term requirements to prevent a
                                                 products.                                               reference a specific portion of the                   spindle failure. Accordingly, this


                                            VerDate Sep<11>2014   13:51 Mar 01, 2017   Jkt 241001   PO 00000   Frm 00008   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\02MRP1.SGM   02MRP1


                                                                         Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 40 / Thursday, March 2, 2017 / Proposed Rules                                                12309

                                                 proposed AD would require an MPI of                     Costs of Compliance                                   on a substantial number of small entities
                                                 the spindle every 500 hours TIS until                     We estimate that this proposed AD                   under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                                 the spindle reaches its new life limit of               would affect 323 helicopters of U.S.                  Flexibility Act.
                                                 1,500 hours TIS. These proposed actions                 Registry. We estimate that operators                    We prepared an economic evaluation
                                                 are intended to detect a crack in a                     may incur the following costs in order                of the estimated costs to comply with
                                                 spindle and prevent loss of a main rotor                to comply with this AD. Labor costs are               this proposed AD and placed it in the
                                                 blade and subsequent loss of control of                 estimated at $85 per work-hour.                       AD docket.
                                                 the helicopter.                                         Inspecting the spindles would take                    List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                                 FAA’s Determination                                     about 15 work-hours for an estimated
                                                                                                                                                                 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                                   We are proposing this AD because we                   cost of $1,275 per helicopter and
                                                                                                                                                               safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                                 evaluated all the relevant information                  $411,825 for the U.S. fleet per
                                                                                                                                                               Safety.
                                                 and determined the unsafe condition                     inspection cycle. Replacing a cracked
                                                 described previously is likely to exist or              spindle would cost $8,164 for parts and               The Proposed Amendment
                                                 develop in other products of these same                 no additional work-hours. Replacing a                   Accordingly, under the authority
                                                 type designs.                                           set of three spindles that have reached               delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                                                                                         their life limit would take about 14                  the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
                                                 Related Service Information                             work-hours and parts would cost                       39 as follows:
                                                    We reviewed Enstrom Service                          $17,500 for a total cost of $18,690 per
                                                 Directive Bulletin No. 0119, Revision 3,                helicopter.                                           PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
                                                 dated June 24, 2016, for Model F–28A,                   Authority for This Rulemaking                         DIRECTIVES
                                                 F–28C, F–28F, 280, 280C, 280F, and
                                                 280FX helicopters with a spindle P/N                       Title 49 of the United States Code                 ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                                 28–14282–11 or 28–14282–13. We also                     specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                continues to read as follows:
                                                 reviewed Enstrom Service Directive                      rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                     Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                                 Bulletin No. T–050, Revision 3, dated                   section 106, describes the authority of
                                                 June 24, 2016, for Model 480                            the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:                § 39.13    [Amended]
                                                 helicopters, serial numbers 5001                        Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more                ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
                                                 through 5004 and 5006, and with a                       detail the scope of the Agency’s                      removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
                                                 spindle P/N 28–14282–13, except those                   authority.                                            2015–08–51, Amendment 39–18160 (80
                                                 aircraft modified with tension-torsion                     We are issuing this rulemaking under               FR 28172, May 18, 2015), and adding
                                                 straps. Both service directive bulletins                the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,            the following new AD:
                                                 specify sending the spindle to Enstrom                  Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
                                                                                                                                                               The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation
                                                 for an MPI before the spindle reaches                   General requirements.’’ Under that                        (Enstrom): Docket No. FAA–2017–0141;
                                                 1,500 hours time-in-service (TIS), or                   section, Congress charges the FAA with                    Directorate Identifier 2016–SW–067–AD.
                                                 within 5 hours TIS for those spindles                   promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
                                                                                                         air commerce by prescribing regulations               (a) Applicability
                                                 with 1,500 or more hours TIS.
                                                                                                         for practices, methods, and procedures                   This AD applies to Enstrom Model F–28A,
                                                 Thereafter, the service directive                                                                             280, F–28C, F–28C–2, F–28C–2R, 280C, F–
                                                 bulletins specify returning the spindle                 the Administrator finds necessary for
                                                                                                         safety in air commerce. This regulation               28F, F–28F–R, 280F, and 280FX helicopters,
                                                 to Enstrom for an MPI every 500 hours.                                                                        all serial numbers; and Enstrom Model 480
                                                                                                         is within the scope of that authority
                                                 Proposed AD Requirements                                                                                      helicopters, serial numbers 5001 through
                                                                                                         because it addresses an unsafe condition              5006; with a main rotor spindle (spindle) part
                                                   This proposed AD would require                        that is likely to exist or develop on                 number (P/N) 28–14282–11 or 28–14282–13,
                                                 establishing a life limit of 1,500 hours                products identified in this rulemaking                installed, certificated in any category.
                                                 TIS for spindle P/Ns 28–14282–11 and                    action.
                                                                                                                                                               (b) Unsafe Condition
                                                 28–14282–13. This proposed AD would                     Regulatory Findings
                                                 also require an initial and recurring MPI                                                                       This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
                                                                                                           We determined that this proposed AD                 crack in a spindle, which, if not detected,
                                                 of the spindles.                                                                                              could result in loss of a main rotor blade and
                                                                                                         would not have federalism implications
                                                 Differences Between This Proposed AD                    under Executive Order 13132. This                     subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
                                                 and the Service Information                             proposed AD would not have a                          (c) Affected ADs
                                                   This proposed AD would require                        substantial direct effect on the States, on              This AD supersedes AD 2015–08–51,
                                                 establishing a spindle life limit of 1,500              the relationship between the national                 Amendment 39–18160 (80 FR 28172, May 18,
                                                 hours TIS. The service information does                 Government and the States, or on the                  2015).
                                                 not specify a life limit.                               distribution of power and                             (d) Comments Due Date
                                                   This proposed AD would require that                   responsibilities among the various
                                                                                                         levels of government.                                   We must receive comments by May 1,
                                                 the MPI be conducted by a Level II or                                                                         2017.
                                                 Level III inspector or equivalent. The                    For the reasons discussed, I certify
                                                 service information specifies sending                   this proposed regulation:                             (e) Compliance
                                                 the spindle to Enstrom for an MPI.                        1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                   You are responsible for performing each
                                                   This proposed AD would require an                     action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
pmangrum on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                                                                               action required by this AD within the
                                                 initial MPI before further flight for a                   2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the          specified compliance time unless it has
                                                 spindle with 500 or more hours TIS,                     DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures                already been accomplished prior to that time.
                                                 unless an MPI has been done within the                  (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);                     (f) Required Actions
                                                 last 500 hours TIS. The service                           3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in              (1) Before further flight, remove from
                                                 information specifies an initial MPI                    Alaska to the extent that it justifies                service any spindle P/N 28–14282–11 or 28–
                                                 compliance time of within 5 hours TIS                   making a regulatory distinction; and                  14282–13 that has 1,500 or more hours time-
                                                 for a spindle with 1,500 or more hours                    4. Will not have a significant                      in-service (TIS). If the hours TIS of a spindle
                                                 TIS.                                                    economic impact, positive or negative,                is unknown, use the TIS of the helicopter.



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                                                 12310                   Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 40 / Thursday, March 2, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                 Thereafter, remove from service any spindle               Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on February            p.m., Monday through Friday, except
                                                 P/N 28–14282–11 or 28–14282–13 before                   16, 2017.                                             Federal holidays.
                                                 accumulating 1,500 hours TIS.                           Lance T. Gant,
                                                    (2) For each spindle with 500 or more                                                                      Examining the AD Docket
                                                                                                         Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft
                                                 hours TIS, using the hours TIS of the                   Certification Service.                                   You may examine the AD docket on
                                                 helicopter if the hours TIS of the spindle is           [FR Doc. 2017–03950 Filed 3–1–17; 8:45 am]            the Internet at http://
                                                 unknown:                                                BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                                                                               www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                    (i) Before further flight, unless already                                                                  and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
                                                 done within the last 500 hours TIS, conduct                                                                   0157; or in person at the Docket
                                                 a magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of the             DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                          Management Facility between 9 a.m.
                                                 spindle for a crack, paying particular                                                                        and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
                                                 attention to the threaded portion of the                Federal Aviation Administration                       except Federal holidays. The AD docket
                                                 spindle. The MPI of the spindle must be                                                                       contains this proposed AD, the
                                                 conducted by a Level II or Level III inspector          14 CFR Part 39                                        regulatory evaluation, any comments
                                                 qualified in the MPI in the Aeronautics                                                                       received, and other information. The
                                                                                                         [Docket No. FAA–2017–0157; Directorate
                                                 Sector according to the EN4179 or NAS410                                                                      street address for the Docket Office
                                                                                                         Identifier 2016–CE–039–AD]
                                                 standard or equivalent. If there is a crack in                                                                (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
                                                 the spindle, replace it with an airworthy               RIN 2120–AA64                                         ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
                                                 spindle before further flight.                                                                                available in the AD docket shortly after
                                                    (ii) Thereafter at intervals not to exceed           Airworthiness Directives; Piper                       receipt.
                                                 500 hours TIS, repeat the MPI specified in              Aircraft, Inc. Airplanes
                                                                                                                                                               FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                 paragraph (f)(2)(i) of this AD.                                                                               Scott Hopper, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                                                                         AGENCY: Federal Aviation
                                                 (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance                   Administration (FAA), DOT.                            FAA, Atlanta Aircraft Certification
                                                 (AMOCs)                                                 ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking                 Office, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College
                                                                                                         (NPRM).                                               Park, Georgia 30337; phone: (404) 474–
                                                   (1) The Manager, Chicago Aircraft
                                                                                                                                                               5535; fax: (404) 474–5606; email:
                                                 Certification Office, FAA, may approve
                                                 AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to:               SUMMARY:   We propose to supersede                    scott.hopper@faa.gov.
                                                 Monica Nemecek, Continued Operational                   Airworthiness Directive (AD) 69–13–03,                SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                 Safety Program Manager, Chicago Aircraft                which applies to all Piper Aircraft, Inc.
                                                                                                                                                               Comments Invited
                                                 Certification Office, Small Airplane                    Models PA–23, PA–23–160, PA–23–235,
                                                 Directorate, FAA, 2300 East Devon Ave., Des             PA–23–250, PA–E23–250, and PA–30                        We invite you to send any written
                                                 Plaines, IL 60018; (847) 294–7618; email 9-             airplanes. AD 69–13–03 currently                      relevant data, views, or arguments about
                                                 AGL-CHI-ACO-COS@faa.gov.                                requires inspection of the heater exhaust             this proposed AD. Send your comments
                                                   (2) For operations conducted under a 14               extension, replacement of the extension               to an address listed under the
                                                                                                         as necessary, and overhaul of the                     ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
                                                 CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
                                                 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that              combustion heater assembly. Since we                  FAA–2017–9157; Directorate Identifier
                                                 you notify your principal inspector, or                 issued AD 69–13–03, we proposed an                    2016–CE–039–AD’’ at the beginning of
                                                 lacking a principal inspector, the manager of           AD that applies to the Meggitt (Troy),                your comments. We specifically invite
                                                 the local flight standards district office or           Inc. combustion heaters, and the                      comments on the overall regulatory,
                                                 certificate holding district office before              proposed combustion heater AD would                   economic, environmental, and energy
                                                 operating any aircraft complying with this              incorporate corrective actions for the                aspects of this proposed AD. We will
                                                 AD through an AMOC.                                     heater that contradict the overhaul                   consider all comments received by the
                                                   (3) AMOCs approved previously in                      requirement of AD 69–13–03. This                      closing date and may amend this
                                                 accordance with AD 2015–08–51,                          proposed AD would retain the                          proposed AD because of those
                                                 Amendment 39–18160 (80 FR 28172, May 18,                inspection of the heater exhaust                      comments.
                                                 2015), are approved as AMOCs for the                    extension, with replacement of the                      We will post all comments we
                                                 corresponding requirements in paragraph (f)             extension as necessary, and remove the                receive, without change, to http://
                                                 of this AD.                                             overhaul requirement of the combustion                www.regulations.gov, including any
                                                                                                         heater assembly. We are proposing this                personal information you provide. We
                                                 (h) Additional Information                                                                                    will also post a report summarizing each
                                                                                                         AD to correct the unsafe condition on
                                                   Enstrom Service Directive Bulletin Nos.               these products.                                       substantive verbal contact we receive
                                                 0119 and T–050, both Revision 3 and both                                                                      about this proposed AD.
                                                                                                         DATES: We must receive comments on
                                                 dated June 24, 2016, which are not
                                                                                                         this proposed AD by April 17, 2017.                   Discussion
                                                 incorporated by reference, contain additional
                                                 information about the subject of this AD. For           ADDRESSES: You may send comments,                       We issued AD 69–13–03, Amendment
                                                 service information identified in this AD,              using the procedures found in 14 CFR                  39–1749 (38 FR 33765, December 7,
                                                 contact Enstrom Helicopter Corporation,                 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following              1973) (‘‘AD 69–13–03’’), for certain
                                                 2209 22nd Street, Menominee, MI; telephone              methods:                                              Piper Aircraft, Inc. Models PA–23, PA–
                                                 (906) 863–1200; fax (906) 863–6821; or at                  • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to                23–160, PA–23–235, PA–23–250, PA–
                                                 www.enstromhelicopter.com. You may                      http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the                E23–250, and PA–30 airplanes. AD 69–
pmangrum on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                 review the service information at the FAA,              instructions for submitting comments.                 13–03 requires inspection of the heater
                                                 Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest                  • Fax: 202–493–2251.                               exhaust extension to determine if it is
                                                 Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–                     • Mail: U.S. Department of                         mild steel or stainless steel, repetitive
                                                 321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.                              Transportation, Docket Operations, M–                 inspections of the mild steel extensions
                                                                                                         30, West Building Ground Floor, Room                  for deterioration, replacing the
                                                 (i) Subject
                                                                                                         W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,                  extension as necessary, and overhaul of
                                                   Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)               Washington, DC 20590.                                 the combustion heater assembly. AD
                                                 Code: 6220, Main Rotor Head.                               • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail                   69–13–03 resulted from the potential of
                                                                                                         address above between 9 a.m. and 5                    carbon monoxide entering the airplane


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Document Created: 2017-03-02 00:09:19
Document Modified: 2017-03-02 00:09:19
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 1, 2017.
ContactMonica Nemecek, Continued Operational Safety Program Manager, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300 East Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; (847) 294-7618; email [email protected]
FR Citation82 FR 12308 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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