82 FR 12393 - Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

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

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, 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 / 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.

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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