82 FR 12393 - Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 41 (March 3, 2017)

Page Range		12393-12395
FR Document		2017-04115

We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-92A helicopters. This AD requires inspecting certain bearings. This AD is prompted by reports of failed bearings with subsequent loss of tail rotor (TR) control. The actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these helicopters.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 41 (Friday, March 3, 2017)

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 41 (Friday, March 3, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 12393-12395]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-04115]



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                                                Federal Register
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 41 / Friday, March 3, 2017 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 12393]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0169; Directorate Identifier 2017-SW-003-AD; 
Amendment 39-18818; AD 2017-02-51]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-92A helicopters. This 
AD requires inspecting certain bearings. This AD is prompted by reports 
of failed bearings with subsequent loss of tail rotor (TR) control. The 
actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these 
helicopters.

DATES: This AD becomes effective March 20, 2017 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 
2017-02-51 issued on January 13, 2017, which contains the requirements 
of this AD. We must receive comments on this AD by May 2, 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-
0169; 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 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 final rule, contact 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service Engineering, 124 Quarry 
Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-Winged-S or 203-416-4299; 
email: [email protected]. 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer, 
Boston Aircraft Certification Office, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 
1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 
238-7161; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to 
provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, 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 resulted 
from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific 
portion of the AD, 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 them 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 rulemaking during the 
comment period. We will consider all the comments we receive and may 
conduct additional rulemaking based on those comments.

Discussion

    On November 16, 2016, we issued Emergency AD 2016-24-51 to correct 
an unsafe condition on Sikorsky Model S-92A helicopters with a TR pitch 
change shaft (TRPCS) assembly, part number (P/N) 92358-06303-041 or P/N 
92358-06303-042, with bearings that were manufactured prior to November 
3, 2016. AD 2016-24-51 subsequently published in the Federal Register 
as a final rule (81 FR 95425, December 28, 2016). AD 2016-24-51 
requires removing from service TRPCS assemblies with less than 5 hours 
time-in-service (TIS) since new or overhaul. For TRPCS assemblies with 
between 5 and 80 hours TIS since new or overhaul, AD 2016-24-51 also 
requires performing one-time inspections of the TRPCS bearings and 
replacing the TRPCS assembly if the bearings do not pass these 
inspections. AD 2016-24-51 was prompted by two reports of an operator 
losing TR control caused by a failed TRPCS assembly.

Actions Since AD 2016-24-51 Was Issued

    After AD 2016-24-51 was issued, we received a report of an S-92A 
helicopter losing TR control because of a failed bearing with more than 
80 hours TIS. We have now determined that the unsafe condition can 
exist on TRPCS bearings regardless of hours TIS. Therefore, on January 
13, 2017, we issued Emergency AD 2017-02-51, which applies to all TRPCS 
assemblies, regardless of hours TIS. Emergency AD 2017-02-51 requires a 
one-time visual inspection and a repetitive borescope inspection of the 
TRPCS assembly bearing. The repetitive inspection is intended to detect 
bearing deterioration. The actions in Emergency AD 2017-02-51 are 
intended to detect a binding bearing, prevent loss of TR control, and 
possible loss of control of the helicopter.

FAA's Determination

    We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information

[[Page 12394]]

and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to 
exist or develop in other helicopters of the same type design.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 92-64-011, Basic Issue, 
dated January 10, 2017 (ASB). The ASB describes procedures for 
inspecting the TRPCS and bearing assemblies for ratcheting, binding, 
and rough turning. The ASB also specifies periodic review of the health 
and usage monitoring system (HUMS) tail gearbox bearing energy tool.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires, before further flight, removing the TRPCS 
assembly and inspecting the bearing. If the bearing does not rotate 
freely; the bearing sounds rough or chatters; there is any purged 
grease with metal particles; a nick or dent; or if there is a cut, 
tear, or distortion in the bearing seal, before further flight, 
replacing the TRPCS assembly is required. This AD also requires, within 
10 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10 hours TIS, 
inspecting the TRPCS assembly with a borescope. If the white Teflon 
seal or snap ring is missing, or if there is a rip, tear, or heat 
damage on the seal or if there is no gap in the snap ring, replacing 
the TRPCS assembly is required before further flight.

Differences Between This AD and the Service Information

    This AD requires repetitive borescope inspections of the TRPCS; the 
ASB does not. The ASB specifies that operators review HUMS data in 
addition to the one-time inspection and specifies contacting Sikorsky 
if any discrepancies are found; this AD does not.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 80 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry.
    We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order 
to comply with this AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per hour, 
borescope and visually inspecting the TRPCS assembly will require 16 
work-hours, for a cost per helicopter of $1,360 and a cost of $108,800 
for the U.S. fleet per inspection. If required, replacing a TRPCS 
assembly will require 16 work-hours and required parts will cost 
$4,000, for a cost per helicopter of $5,360.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting 
these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions 
needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we found and 
continue to find that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving 
notice and comment prior to the adoption of this rule because the 
previously described unsafe condition can result in loss of TR control 
and certain actions must be accomplished before further flight and 
within 10 hours TIS, a very short interval for these helicopters.
    Since it was found that immediate corrective action was required, 
notice and opportunity for prior public comments before issuing this AD 
were impracticable and contrary to public interest and good cause 
existed to make the AD effective immediately by Emergency AD 2017-02-
51, issued on January 13, 2017, to all known U.S. owners and operators 
of these helicopters. These conditions still exist and the AD is hereby 
published in the Federal Register as an amendment to section 39.13 of 
the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to make it effective to 
all persons.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2017-02-51 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39-18818; Docket 
No. FAA-2017-FAA-2017-0169; Directorate Identifier 2017-SW-003-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) 
Model S-92A helicopters, certificated in any category, with a tail 
rotor pitch change shaft (TRPCS) assembly part number (P/N) 92358-
06303-041 or P/N 92358-06303-042 installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a binding TRPCS bearing. 
This condition could result in loss of tail rotor (TR) control and 
possible loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective March 20, 2017 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency 
AD 2017-02-51, issued on January 13, 2017, which contains the 
requirements of this AD.

(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) Before further flight, unless already done, remove the TRPCS 
assembly and

[[Page 12395]]

inspect the SB2310 angular contact bearing for free rotation, purged 
grease with metal particles, a nick or a dent, and any cut, tear, or 
distortion on the bearing seal. If the bearing does not rotate 
freely; the bearing sounds rough or chatters; there is any purged 
grease with metal particles; a nick or dent; or if there is a cut, 
tear, or distortion in the bearing seal, before further flight, 
replace the TRPCS assembly.
    (2) Within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), unless already done 
within the last 10 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 10 hours TIS, on the TR side of the TRPCS bearing, remove the 
plug from the end of the TRPCS, insert the borescope into the TRPCS, 
and determine whether the white Teflon seal and snap ring are 
installed. If the white Teflon seal or snap ring is missing, or if 
there is a rip, tear, or heat damage on the seal or if there is no 
gap in the snap ring, before further flight replace the TRPCS 
assembly.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may 
approve AMOCs for this Emergency AD. Send your proposal to: Blaine 
Williams, Aerospace Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 
Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, 
Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238-7161; 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

    Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 92-64-011, Basic Issue, dated 
January 10, 2017, which is not incorporated by reference, contains 
additional information about the subject of this final rule. For 
service information identified in this final rule, contact Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service Engineering, 124 Quarry Road, 
Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-Winged-S or 203-416-4299; email: 
[email protected]. You may review this service 
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest 
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6720 Tail Rotor 
Control System.


    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 23, 2017.
Lance T. Gant,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-04115 Filed 3-2-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

12393

Rules and Regulations Federal Register
Vol. 82, No. 41

Friday, March 3, 2017

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER p.m., Monday through Friday, except submit them only one time. We will file
contains regulatory documents having general Federal holidays. in the docket all comments that we
applicability and legal effect, most of which receive, as well as a report summarizing
are keyed to and codified in the Code of Examining the AD Docket
each substantive public contact with
Federal Regulations, which is published under You may examine the AD docket on FAA personnel concerning this
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. the Internet at http:// rulemaking during the comment period.
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by www.regulations.gov by searching for We will consider all the comments we
the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– receive and may conduct additional
new books are listed in the first FEDERAL 0169; or in person at the Docket rulemaking based on those comments.
REGISTER issue of each week. Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Discussion
Federal holidays. The AD docket On November 16, 2016, we issued
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION contains this AD, the economic Emergency AD 2016–24–51 to correct an
evaluation, any comments received, and unsafe condition on Sikorsky Model
Federal Aviation Administration other information. The street address for S–92A helicopters with a TR pitch
the Docket Operations Office (telephone change shaft (TRPCS) assembly, part
14 CFR Part 39 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES number (P/N) 92358–06303–041 or P/N
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0169; Directorate section. Comments will be available in 92358–06303–042, with bearings that
Identifier 2017–SW–003–AD; Amendment the AD docket shortly after receipt. were manufactured prior to November
39–18818; AD 2017–02–51] For service information identified in 3, 2016. AD 2016–24–51 subsequently
this final rule, contact Sikorsky Aircraft published in the Federal Register as a
RIN 2120–AA64
Corporation, Customer Service final rule (81 FR 95425, December 28,
Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Engineering, 124 Quarry Road, 2016). AD 2016–24–51 requires
Aircraft Corporation Helicopters Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800- removing from service TRPCS
Winged-S or 203–416–4299; email: wcs_ assemblies with less than 5 hours time-
AGENCY: Federal Aviation cust_service_eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. You in-service (TIS) since new or overhaul.
Administration (FAA), DOT. may review the referenced service For TRPCS assemblies with between 5
ACTION: Final rule; request for information at the FAA, Office of the and 80 hours TIS since new or overhaul,
comments. Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, AD 2016–24–51 also requires
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, performing one-time inspections of the
SUMMARY: We are publishing a new TRPCS bearings and replacing the
Fort Worth, TX 76177.
airworthiness directive (AD) for TRPCS assembly if the bearings do not
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer, pass these inspections. AD 2016–24–51
Model S–92A helicopters. This AD was prompted by two reports of an
requires inspecting certain bearings. Boston Aircraft Certification Office,
Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 operator losing TR control caused by a
This AD is prompted by reports of failed failed TRPCS assembly.
bearings with subsequent loss of tail District Avenue, Burlington,
rotor (TR) control. The actions of this Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) Actions Since AD 2016–24–51 Was
AD are intended to address an unsafe 238–7161; email blaine.williams@ Issued
condition on these helicopters. faa.gov. After AD 2016–24–51 was issued, we
DATES: This AD becomes effective SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: received a report of an S–92A helicopter
March 20, 2017 to all persons except Comments Invited losing TR control because of a failed
those persons to whom it was made bearing with more than 80 hours TIS.
immediately effective by Emergency AD This AD is a final rule that involves We have now determined that the
2017–02–51 issued on January 13, 2017, requirements affecting flight safety, and unsafe condition can exist on TRPCS
which contains the requirements of this we did not provide you with notice and bearings regardless of hours TIS.
AD. We must receive comments on this an opportunity to provide your Therefore, on January 13, 2017, we
AD by May 2, 2017. comments prior to it becoming effective. issued Emergency AD 2017–02–51,
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by However, we invite you to participate in which applies to all TRPCS assemblies,
any of the following methods: this rulemaking by submitting written regardless of hours TIS. Emergency AD
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to comments, data, or views. We also 2017–02–51 requires a one-time visual
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the invite comments relating to the inspection and a repetitive borescope
online instructions for sending your economic, environmental, energy, or inspection of the TRPCS assembly
comments electronically. federalism impacts that resulted from bearing. The repetitive inspection is
• Fax: 202–493–2251. adopting this AD. The most helpful intended to detect bearing deterioration.
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S. comments reference a specific portion of The actions in Emergency AD 2017–02–
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES

Department of Transportation, Docket the AD, explain the reason for any 51 are intended to detect a binding
Operations, M–30, West Building recommended change, and include bearing, prevent loss of TR control, and
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 supporting data. To ensure the docket possible loss of control of the helicopter.
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, does not contain duplicate comments,
DC 20590–0001. commenters should send only one copy FAA’s Determination
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to the of written comments, or if comments are We are issuing this AD because we
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 filed electronically, commenters should evaluated all the relevant information

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12394 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 41 / Friday, March 3, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

and determined the unsafe condition requirements would delay 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
described previously is likely to exist or implementing the safety actions needed DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
develop in other helicopters of the same to correct this known unsafe condition. (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
type design. Therefore, we found and continue to 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
find that the risk to the flying public Alaska to the extent that it justifies
Related Service Information justifies waiving notice and comment making a regulatory distinction; and
We reviewed Sikorsky Alert Service prior to the adoption of this rule 4. Will not have a significant
Bulletin 92–64–011, Basic Issue, dated because the previously described unsafe economic impact, positive or negative,
January 10, 2017 (ASB). The ASB condition can result in loss of TR on a substantial number of small entities
describes procedures for inspecting the control and certain actions must be under the criteria of the Regulatory
TRPCS and bearing assemblies for accomplished before further flight and Flexibility Act.
ratcheting, binding, and rough turning. within 10 hours TIS, a very short We prepared an economic evaluation
The ASB also specifies periodic review interval for these helicopters. of the estimated costs to comply with
of the health and usage monitoring Since it was found that immediate this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
system (HUMS) tail gearbox bearing corrective action was required, notice List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
energy tool. and opportunity for prior public
comments before issuing this AD were Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
AD Requirements safety, Incorporation by Reference,
impracticable and contrary to public
This AD requires, before further flight, interest and good cause existed to make Safety.
removing the TRPCS assembly and the AD effective immediately by Adoption of the Amendment
inspecting the bearing. If the bearing Emergency AD 2017–02–51, issued on
does not rotate freely; the bearing Accordingly, under the authority
January 13, 2017, to all known U.S.
sounds rough or chatters; there is any delegated to me by the Administrator,
owners and operators of these
purged grease with metal particles; a the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
helicopters. These conditions still exist
nick or dent; or if there is a cut, tear, or follows:
and the AD is hereby published in the
distortion in the bearing seal, before Federal Register as an amendment to PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
further flight, replacing the TRPCS section 39.13 of the Federal Aviation DIRECTIVES
assembly is required. This AD also Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to make it
requires, within 10 hours TIS, and effective to all persons. ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10 continues to read as follows:
hours TIS, inspecting the TRPCS Authority for This Rulemaking
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
assembly with a borescope. If the white Title 49 of the United States Code
Teflon seal or snap ring is missing, or specifies the FAA’s authority to issue § 39.13 [Amended]
if there is a rip, tear, or heat damage on rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the seal or if there is no gap in the snap section 106, describes the authority of
the following new airworthiness
ring, replacing the TRPCS assembly is the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
directive (AD):
required before further flight. Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s 2017–02–51 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation:
Differences Between This AD and the authority. Amendment 39–18818; Docket No.
Service Information We are issuing this rulemaking under FAA–2017–FAA–2017–0169; Directorate
Identifier 2017–SW–003–AD.
This AD requires repetitive borescope the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
inspections of the TRPCS; the ASB does Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: (a) Applicability
not. The ASB specifies that operators General requirements.’’ Under that This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft
review HUMS data in addition to the section, Congress charges the FAA with Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S–92A
one-time inspection and specifies promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in helicopters, certificated in any category, with
contacting Sikorsky if any discrepancies air commerce by prescribing regulations a tail rotor pitch change shaft (TRPCS)
are found; this AD does not. for practices, methods, and procedures assembly part number (P/N) 92358–06303–
041 or P/N 92358–06303–042 installed.
the Administrator finds necessary for
Costs of Compliance (b) Unsafe Condition
safety in air commerce. This regulation
We estimate that this AD will affect is within the scope of that authority This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
80 helicopters of U.S. Registry. because it addresses an unsafe condition binding TRPCS bearing. This condition could
We estimate that operators may incur that is likely to exist or develop on result in loss of tail rotor (TR) control and
the following costs in order to comply products identified in this rulemaking possible loss of control of the helicopter.
with this AD. At an average labor rate action. (c) Effective Date
of $85 per hour, borescope and visually
Regulatory Findings This AD becomes effective March 20, 2017
inspecting the TRPCS assembly will to all persons except those persons to whom
require 16 work-hours, for a cost per We determined that this AD will not it was made immediately effective by
helicopter of $1,360 and a cost of have federalism implications under Emergency AD 2017–02–51, issued on
$108,800 for the U.S. fleet per Executive Order 13132. This AD will January 13, 2017, which contains the
inspection. If required, replacing a not have a substantial direct effect on requirements of this AD.
TRPCS assembly will require 16 work- the States, on the relationship between (d) Compliance
hours and required parts will cost the national Government and the States,
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES

$4,000, for a cost per helicopter of or on the distribution of power and You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
$5,360. responsibilities among the various specified compliance time unless it has
levels of government. already been accomplished prior to that time.
FAA’s Justification and Determination For the reasons discussed, I certify
of the Effective Date that this AD: (e) Required Actions
Providing an opportunity for public 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory (1) Before further flight, unless already
comments prior to adopting these AD action’’ under Executive Order 12866; done, remove the TRPCS assembly and

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 41 / Friday, March 3, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 12395

inspect the SB2310 angular contact bearing DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION evaluation, any comments received, and
for free rotation, purged grease with metal other information. The address for the
particles, a nick or a dent, and any cut, tear, Federal Aviation Administration Docket Office (phone: (800) 647–5527)
or distortion on the bearing seal. If the is Document Management Facility, U.S.
bearing does not rotate freely; the bearing 14 CFR Part 39 Department of Transportation, Docket
sounds rough or chatters; there is any purged Operations, M–30, West Building
grease with metal particles; a nick or dent; or [Docket No. FAA–2016–9345; Directorate
Identifier 2016–CE–028–AD; Amendment Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
if there is a cut, tear, or distortion in the
39–18801; AD 2017–04–06] New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
bearing seal, before further flight, replace the
DC 20590.
TRPCS assembly. RIN 2120–AA64
(2) Within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Les
unless already done within the last 10 hours Airworthiness Directives; United Lyne, Aerospace Engineer, FAA,
TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed Instruments, Inc. Series Altimeters Wichita Aircraft Certification Office,
10 hours TIS, on the TR side of the TRPCS 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Wichita,
bearing, remove the plug from the end of the AGENCY: Federal Aviation Kansas 67209; telephone: (316) 946–
TRPCS, insert the borescope into the TRPCS, Administration (FAA), DOT. 4190; fax: (316) 946–4107; email:
and determine whether the white Teflon seal ACTION: Final rule. leslie.lyne@faa.gov.
and snap ring are installed. If the white SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Teflon seal or snap ring is missing, or if there SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
is a rip, tear, or heat damage on the seal or airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Discussion
if there is no gap in the snap ring, before United Instruments, Inc. 5934 series
We issued a notice of proposed
further flight replace the TRPCS assembly. altimeters that were manufactured
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
between January 2015 and February
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance part 39 by adding an AD that would
(AMOCs) 2016 and installed in airplanes and
apply to certain United Instruments,
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
(1) The Manager, Boston Aircraft Inc. 5934 series altimeters that were
reports of certain altimeters displaying
Certification Office, FAA, may approve manufactured between January 2015
higher than actual altitude due to a slow
AMOCs for this Emergency AD. Send your and February 2016 and installed in
diaphragm leak, which would affect the
proposal to: Blaine Williams, Aerospace airplanes and helicopters. The NPRM
Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office,
accuracy of the altimeters. This AD
published in the Federal Register on
Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District requires replacing the affected
November 7, 2016 (81 FR 78083). The
Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; altimeters. We are issuing this AD to
NPRM was prompted by a report that
telephone (781) 238–7161; email correct the unsafe condition on these
certain 5934 series altimeters that were
blaine.williams@faa.gov. products.
manufactured between January 2015
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 DATES: This AD is effective April 7, and February 2016 may display higher
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 2017. than actual altitude. These altimeters
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that The Director of the Federal Register are susceptible to developing a slow
you notify your principal inspector, or approved the incorporation by reference
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
diaphragm leak, which would affect the
of a certain publication listed in this AD accuracy of the altimeters. It has been
the local flight standards district office or
as of April 7, 2017. determined that insufficient removal of
certificate holding district office before
operating any aircraft complying with this ADDRESSES: For service information chemical substance on the diaphragm
AD through an AMOC. identified in this final rule, contact assembly during the production process
United Instruments, Inc., 3625 Comotara of the altimeter caused the misleading
(g) Additional Information Avenue, Wichita, KS 67226; telephone display of altitude data. The NPRM
Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 92–64–011, (316) 636–9203; fax: (316) 636–9243; proposed to require replacing the
Basic Issue, dated January 10, 2017, which is email: customerservice@unitedinst.com; affected altimeters. We are issuing this
not incorporated by reference, contains Internet: www.unitedinst.com or http:// AD to prevent display of misleading
additional information about the subject of www.unitedinst.com/Products/ altitude data, which could result in
this final rule. For service information SpecificationsSheets/d132811.aspx. inadvertent flight into terrain.
identified in this final rule, contact Sikorsky You may view this referenced service
Aircraft Corporation, Customer Service Comments
information at the FAA, Small Airplane
Engineering, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT We gave the public the opportunity to
Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City,
06611; telephone 1–800–Winged–S or 203–
Missouri 64106. For information on the participate in developing this AD. We
416–4299; email: wcs_cust_service_eng.gr-
sik@lmco.com. You may review this service availability of this material at the FAA, received no comments on the NPRM or
information at the FAA, Office of the call (816) 329–4148. It is also available on the determination of the cost to the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 on the internet at http:// public.
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, www.regulations.gov by searching for Conclusion
TX 76177. and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
9345. We reviewed the relevant data and
(h) Subject determined that air safety and the
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Examining the AD Docket public interest require adopting this AD
Code: 6720 Tail Rotor Control System. You may examine the AD docket on as proposed except for minor editorial
the Internet at http:// changes. We have determined that these
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES

Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on February www.regulations.gov by searching for minor changes:
23, 2017.
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– • Are consistent with the intent that
Lance T. Gant, 9345; or in person at the Docket was proposed in the NPRM for
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Management Facility between 9 a.m. correcting the unsafe condition; and
Certification Service. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, • Do not add any additional burden
[FR Doc. 2017–04115 Filed 3–2–17; 8:45 am] except Federal holidays. The AD docket upon the public than was already
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P contains this AD, the regulatory proposed in the NPRM.

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Document Created: 2018-02-01 14:45:54
Document Modified: 2018-02-01 14:45:54

Category		Regulatory Information
Collection		Federal Register
sudoc Class		AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106:
Publisher		Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
Section		Rules and Regulations
Action		Final rule; request for comments.
Dates		This AD becomes effective March 20, 2017 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2017-02-51 issued on January 13, 2017, which contains the requirements of this AD. We must receive comments on this AD by May 2, 2017.
Contact		Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238-7161; email [email protected]
FR Citation		82 FR 12393
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

82 FR 12393 - Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 41 (March 3, 2017)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration