82 FR 31901 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 131 (July 11, 2017)

Page Range		31901-31903
FR Document		2017-14232
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the intermediate gear box (IGB) fairing. This AD was prompted by separation of the IGB fairing from the fairing gutter and subsequent interference with the drive shaft. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an unsafe condition on these products.
Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 131 (Tuesday, July 11, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 11, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 31901-31903]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-14232]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-6693; Directorate Identifier 2015-SW-033-AD; 
Amendment 39-18886; AD 2017-10-12]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus 
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and 
EC225LP helicopters. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the 
intermediate gear box (IGB) fairing. This AD was prompted by separation 
of the IGB fairing from the fairing gutter and subsequent interference 
with the drive shaft. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective August 15, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of August 15, 2017.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; 
or at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub/FO/scripts/myFO_login.php. 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. It is also available 
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2016-6693.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
6693; or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any 
incorporated-by-reference service information, the economic evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The street address for 
the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is U.S. Department 
of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M-30, West Building Ground 
Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Hatfield, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5116; email 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    On January 5, 2017, at 82 FR 1260, the Federal Register published 
our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters 
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP 
helicopters with an IGB fairing part number (P/N) 332A24-0303-05XX, 
332A24-0303-06XX, 332A08-1391-00, or 332A08-1391-01 installed, where 
``XX'' is any two alphanumeric characters. The NPRM proposed to require 
repetitive inspections of the IGB fairing. The proposed requirements 
were intended to prevent the detachment of the angle section of an IGB 
and subsequent interference between an IGB fairing and tail rotor 
inclined drive shaft. This condition could result in failure of a tail 
rotor drive shaft, loss of the tail rotor drive, and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.
    The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2015-0092, dated May 26, 2015, 
issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of 
the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for the Airbus Model 
AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters with 
certain part-numbered IGB fairings installed. EASA advises of 
occurrences involving separation of the angle section of the IGB 
fairing from the IGB fairing gutter, which caused interference with the 
tail rotor (T/R) inclined drive shaft. EASA states that this condition, 
if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of the T/R drive 
shaft, loss of the T/R drive, and consequent reduced control of the 
helicopter. To address this condition, EASA issued a series of ADs, 
including AD No. 2015-0092, to require repetitive inspections of the 
IGB fairing and its attachment supports and installation of a new IGB 
fairing, P/N 332A24-0322-00, as terminating action for the inspections.

Comments

    An individual commented that he supports the NPRM.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
France and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to 
our bilateral agreement with France, EASA, its technical 
representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in 
the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all 
information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same 
type designs and that air safety and the public interest require 
adopting the AD requirements as proposed.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD requires replacing the IGB fairing with the composite 
fairing within 31 months. This AD requires this

[[Page 31902]]

replacement within 150 hours time-in-service.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin 
(EASB), Revision 5, dated March 9, 2015, which is one document with 
three different identification numbers. EASB No. 53.01.47 is for Model 
AS332C, C1, L, L1, L2, and military model B, B1, M, M1, and F1 
helicopters. EASB No. 53.00.48 is for military Model AS532-series 
helicopters. EASB No. 53A001 is for Model EC225 LP and the military 
Model EC725AP helicopter. EASB Nos. 53.01.47 and 53A001 are 
incorporated by reference in this AD. EASB No. 53.00.48 is not 
incorporated by reference in this AD.
    This service information specifies repetitive inspections of the 
IGB fairing, attachment supports, and fairing gutter. This service 
information also advises that IGB fairing P/Ns 332A24-0303-05XX, 
332A24-0303-06XX, 332A08-1391-00, and 332A08-1391-01 are unfit for 
flight beginning December 1, 2017, and that these fairings should be 
replaced with a new composite fairing P/N 332A24-0322-00.
    We also reviewed Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin No. AS332-
53.01.78, Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015, for FAA type-certificated 
Model AS332C, C1, L, L1, and L2 helicopters and military Model AS332B, 
B1, F1, M, and M1 helicopters, and Airbus Helicopter Service Bulletin 
No. EC225-53-041, Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015, for the Model 
EC225LP helicopter. The service information specifies replacing each 
IGB fairing with a newly designed fairing. Airbus Helicopters 
identifies replacement of the IGB fairing under these service 
instructions as Modification 0726819.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Other Related Service Information

    We reviewed Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 53.01.47, Revision 4, for 
Model AS332C, C1, L, L1, L2, and military model B, B1, M, M1, and F1 
helicopters and EASB No. 53A001, Revision 4, for Model EC225 LP and the 
military Model EC725AP helicopters. Both EASBs are part of one document 
that is dated September 27, 2011. The EASBs introduce periodic 
maintenance on the fairings and on the fairing's attachment angles.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 11 helicopters of U.S. Registry 
and that labor costs average $85 per work-hour. Based on these 
estimates, we expect the following costs:
     Visually inspecting each IGB fairing and the left- and 
right-hand attachment supports for a crack require a 0.5 work-hour for 
a total cost of $43 per helicopter and $473 for the U.S. fleet, per 
inspection cycle.
     Replacing the IGB fairing requires 2 work hours and parts 
cost $2,600, for a total cost of $2,770 per helicopter and $30,470 for 
the U.S. fleet.
     Replacing the attachment supports requires 2 work hours, 
and parts cost $1,100 for a total cost of $1,270 per helicopter.
     Visually inspecting for a crack in the fairing gutter 
requires 0.5 work hour for a total cost of about $43 per helicopter.
     Inspecting for interference and separation of the fairing 
gutter requires 0.5 work hour for a total cost of $43 per helicopter.
     Replacing the inclined drive shaft tube requires 2 work 
hours, and parts cost $18,399, for a total cost of $18,569 per 
helicopter.
     Replacing a hydraulic pipe requires 2 work hours, and 
parts cost $1,322, for a total cost of $1,492 per helicopter.
     Repairing the flight control assembly requires 2 work 
hours, and parts cost $484, for a total cost of $654 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 helicopters identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, 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):

2017-10-12 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-18886; Docket No. FAA-
2016-6693; Directorate Identifier 2015-SW-033-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, 
AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters with an intermediate gear box (IGB) 
fairing part number (P/N) 332A24-0303-05XX, 332A24-0303-06XX, 
332A08-1391-00, or 332A08-1391-01 installed, where ``XX'' is any two 
alphanumeric characters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as detachment of the angle 
section of an IGB and subsequent interference between an IGB fairing 
and tail rotor inclined drive shaft. This condition could result in 
failure of a tail rotor drive shaft, loss of the tail rotor drive,

[[Page 31903]]

and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective August 15, 2017.

(d) Compliance

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

(e) Required Actions

    (1) Within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS) and thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 15 hours TIS, visually inspect the IGB 
fairing and the left- and right-hand attachment supports for a crack 
as shown in Figure 2 of Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin (EASB) No. 53.01.47, Revision 5, dated March 9, 2015 (EASB 
No. 53.01.47) or EASB No. 53A001, Revision 5, dated March 9, 2015 
(EASB No. 53A001), as appropriate for your model helicopter.
    (i) If there is a crack in an attachment support, replace the 
attachment support.
    (ii) If there is a crack in the fairing, replace the IGB fairing 
with IGB fairing P/N 332A24-0322-00 in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2, of Airbus Helicopters 
Service Bulletin No. AS332-53.01.78, Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015 
(SB No. AS332-53.01.78) or Service Bulletin No. EC225-53-041, 
Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015 (SB No. EC225-53-041), as 
appropriate for your model helicopter.
    (2) For helicopters with IGB fairing P/N 332A24-0303-05XX or P/N 
332A24-0303-06XX, within 15 hours TIS and thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 15 hours TIS, visually inspect for a crack in the 
fairing gutter as shown in Figure 1 of EASB No. 53.01.47 or EASB No. 
53A001. If there is a crack in the fairing gutter:
    (i) Inspect for interference and separation of the fairing 
gutter. If there is any interference between the gutter and the tail 
rotor inclined drive shaft tube, replace the tail rotor inclined 
drive shaft tube. If there is any interference between the gutter 
and a hydraulic pipe, repair or replace the hydraulic pipe. If there 
is any interference between the gutter and the flight controls, 
repair the flight controls in accordance with FAA-approved 
procedures. If there is any separation of the gutter, remove the 
gutter.
    (ii) Replace the IGB fairing with IGB fairing P/N 332A24-0322-00 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2, 
of SB No. AS332-53.01.78 or SB No. EC225-53-041.
    (3) Within 150 hours TIS, replace the IGB fairing P/N 332A24-
0303-05XX, 332A24-0303-06XX, 332A08-1391-00, or 332A08-1391-01 with 
IGB fairing P/N 332A24-0322-00 in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2, of SB No. AS332-53.01.78 or SB No. 
EC225-53-041.
    (4) Replacing the IGB fairing with IGB fairing P/N 332A24-0322-
00 is terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by 
this AD.
    (5) Do not install an IGB fairing P/N 332A24-0303-05XX, P/N 
332A24-0303-06XX, P/N 332A08-1391-00, or P/N 332A08-1391-01 on any 
helicopter.

(f) Credit for Actions Previously Completed

    Compliance with Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin (EASB) No. 53.01.47, and EASB No. 53A001, both Revision 4, 
and both dated September 27, 2011, before the effective date of this 
AD is considered acceptable for compliance with the initial 
inspections specified in paragraphs (e)(1) and (e)(2) of this AD, 
but does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive 
inspections required by this AD.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: David Hatfield, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5116; 
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.

(h) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA) AD No. 2015-0092, dated May 26, 2015. You may view the 
EASA AD on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. 
FAA-2016-6693.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5350 Aerodynamic 
Fairings.

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 
53.01.47, Revision 5, dated March 9, 2015.

    Note 1 to paragraphs (j)(2)(i) and (ii): Airbus Helicopters 
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 53.01.47 and No. 53A001, both 
Revision 5, and both dated March 9, 2015, are co-published as one 
document along with Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin No. 53.00.48, Revision 5, dated March 9, 2015, which is not 
incorporated by reference in this AD.

    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 
53A001, Revision 5, dated March 9, 2015.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin No. AS332-53.01.78, 
Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin No. EC225-53-041, 
Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015.
    (3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in 
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand 
Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax 
(972) 641-3775; or at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub/FO/scripts/myFO_login.php.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 5, 2017.
Scott A. Horn,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-14232 Filed 7-10-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 11, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 31901

the local flight standards district office or shaft. The actions of this AD are 332A08–1391–00, or 332A08–1391–01
certificate holding district office, before intended to prevent an unsafe condition installed, where ‘‘XX’’ is any two
operating any aircraft complying with this on these products. alphanumeric characters. The NPRM
AD through an AMOC.
DATES: This AD is effective August 15, proposed to require repetitive
(h) Additional Information 2017. inspections of the IGB fairing. The
(1) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert The Director of the Federal Register proposed requirements were intended to
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. SA330–29.12, approved the incorporation by reference prevent the detachment of the angle
Revision 0, dated December 22, 2016, and of certain documents listed in this AD section of an IGB and subsequent
Nexter Mechanics Alert Service Bulletin No. as of August 15, 2017. interference between an IGB fairing and
NM/INGE/16–140, Revision 0, dated tail rotor inclined drive shaft. This
ADDRESSES: For service information
December 22, 2016, which are not
identified in this final rule, contact condition could result in failure of a tail
incorporated by reference, contain additional
information about the subject of this AD. For Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum rotor drive shaft, loss of the tail rotor
service information identified in this AD, Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; drive, and subsequent loss of control of
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232– the helicopter.
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https:// The NPRM was prompted by AD No.
(972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub/ 2015–0092, dated May 26, 2015, issued
641–3775; or at http:// FO/scripts/myFO_login.php. You may by EASA, which is the Technical Agent
www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You
review the referenced service for the Member States of the European
may review a copy of the service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, information at the FAA, Office of the Union, to correct an unsafe condition
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, for the Airbus Model AS332C,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2,
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also and EC225LP helicopters with certain
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD available on the Internet at http:// part-numbered IGB fairings installed.
No. 2016–264–E, dated December 22, 2016. www.regulations.gov by searching for EASA advises of occurrences involving
You may view the EASA AD on the Internet and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– separation of the angle section of the
at http://www.regulations.gov by searching
6693. IGB fairing from the IGB fairing gutter,
for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2017–
0060. which caused interference with the tail
Examining the AD Docket rotor (T/R) inclined drive shaft. EASA
(i) Subject You may examine the AD docket on states that this condition, if not detected
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) the Internet at http:// and corrected, could lead to failure of
Code: 2913, Hydraulic Pump (Electric/ www.regulations.gov by searching for the T/R drive shaft, loss of the T/R
Engine) Main. and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– drive, and consequent reduced control
6693; or in person at the Docket of the helicopter. To address this
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 30,
2017.
Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 condition, EASA issued a series of ADs,
p.m., Monday through Friday, except including AD No. 2015–0092, to require
Scott A. Horn,
Federal holidays. The AD docket repetitive inspections of the IGB fairing
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, contains this AD, the European Aviation and its attachment supports and
Aircraft Certification Service.
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any installation of a new IGB fairing, P/N
[FR Doc. 2017–14372 Filed 7–10–17; 8:45 am]
incorporated-by-reference service 332A24–0322–00, as terminating action
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P information, the economic evaluation, for the inspections.
any comments received, and other
information. The street address for the Comments
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Docket Operations Office (phone: 800– An individual commented that he
Federal Aviation Administration 647–5527) is U.S. Department of supports the NPRM.
Transportation, Docket Operations
Office, M–30, West Building Ground FAA’s Determination
14 CFR Part 39
Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey These helicopters have been approved
[Docket No. FAA–2016–6693; Directorate Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. by the aviation authority of France and
Identifier 2015–SW–033–AD; Amendment
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: are approved for operation in the United
39–18886; AD 2017–10–12]
David Hatfield, Aviation Safety States. Pursuant to our bilateral
RIN 2120–AA64 Engineer, Safety Management Group, agreement with France, EASA, its
Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 technical representative, has notified us
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; of the unsafe condition described in the
Helicopters telephone (817) 222–5116; email EASA AD. We are issuing this AD
AGENCY: Federal Aviation david.hatfield@faa.gov. because we evaluated all information
Administration (FAA), DOT. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: provided by EASA and determined the
ACTION: Final rule.
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
Discussion exist or develop on other helicopters of
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new On January 5, 2017, at 82 FR 1260, the these same type designs and that air
airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Federal Register published our notice of safety and the public interest require
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which adopting the AD requirements as
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with RULES

AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by proposed.
EC225LP helicopters. This AD requires adding an AD that would apply to
Differences Between This AD and the
repetitive inspections of the Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C,
EASA AD
intermediate gear box (IGB) fairing. This AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2,
AD was prompted by separation of the and EC225LP helicopters with an IGB The EASA AD requires replacing the
IGB fairing from the fairing gutter and fairing part number (P/N) 332A24– IGB fairing with the composite fairing
subsequent interference with the drive 0303–05XX, 332A24–0303–06XX, within 31 months. This AD requires this

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31902 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 11, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

replacement within 150 hours time-in- Costs of Compliance 13132. This AD will not have a
service. We estimate that this AD affects 11 substantial direct effect on the States, on
helicopters of U.S. Registry and that the relationship between the national
Related Service Information Under 1
labor costs average $85 per work-hour. government and the States, or on the
CFR Part 51
Based on these estimates, we expect the distribution of power and
We reviewed Airbus Helicopters following costs: responsibilities among the various
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin • Visually inspecting each IGB fairing levels of government.
(EASB), Revision 5, dated March 9, and the left- and right-hand attachment For the reasons discussed above, I
2015, which is one document with three supports for a crack require a 0.5 work- certify that this AD:
different identification numbers. EASB (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
hour for a total cost of $43 per
No. 53.01.47 is for Model AS332C, C1, action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
helicopter and $473 for the U.S. fleet,
L, L1, L2, and military model B, B1, M, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
per inspection cycle.
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
M1, and F1 helicopters. EASB No. • Replacing the IGB fairing requires 2
53.00.48 is for military Model AS532- (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
work hours and parts cost $2,600, for a (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
series helicopters. EASB No. 53A001 is total cost of $2,770 per helicopter and
for Model EC225 LP and the military in Alaska to the extent that it justifies
$30,470 for the U.S. fleet. making a regulatory distinction; and
Model EC725AP helicopter. EASB Nos. • Replacing the attachment supports (4) Will not have a significant
53.01.47 and 53A001 are incorporated requires 2 work hours, and parts cost
by reference in this AD. EASB No. economic impact, positive or negative,
$1,100 for a total cost of $1,270 per on a substantial number of small entities
53.00.48 is not incorporated by helicopter. under the criteria of the Regulatory
reference in this AD. • Visually inspecting for a crack in Flexibility Act.
This service information specifies the fairing gutter requires 0.5 work hour We prepared an economic evaluation
repetitive inspections of the IGB fairing, for a total cost of about $43 per of the estimated costs to comply with
attachment supports, and fairing gutter. helicopter. this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
This service information also advises • Inspecting for interference and
that IGB fairing P/Ns 332A24–0303– separation of the fairing gutter requires List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
05XX, 332A24–0303–06XX, 332A08– 0.5 work hour for a total cost of $43 per Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
1391–00, and 332A08–1391–01 are unfit helicopter. safety, Incorporation by reference,
for flight beginning December 1, 2017, • Replacing the inclined drive shaft Safety.
and that these fairings should be tube requires 2 work hours, and parts
replaced with a new composite fairing cost $18,399, for a total cost of $18,569 Adoption of the Amendment
P/N 332A24–0322–00. per helicopter. Accordingly, under the authority
We also reviewed Airbus Helicopters • Replacing a hydraulic pipe requires delegated to me by the Administrator,
Service Bulletin No. AS332–53.01.78, 2 work hours, and parts cost $1,322, for the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015, for a total cost of $1,492 per helicopter. follows:
FAA type-certificated Model AS332C, • Repairing the flight control
assembly requires 2 work hours, and PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
C1, L, L1, and L2 helicopters and
parts cost $484, for a total cost of $654 DIRECTIVES
military Model AS332B, B1, F1, M, and
M1 helicopters, and Airbus Helicopter per helicopter.
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
Service Bulletin No. EC225–53–041, Authority for This Rulemaking continues to read as follows:
Revision 0, dated March 9, 2015, for the
Model EC225LP helicopter. The service Title 49 of the United States Code Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
information specifies replacing each IGB specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, § 39.13 [Amended]
fairing with a newly designed fairing.
Airbus Helicopters identifies section 106, describes the authority of ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
replacement of the IGB fairing under the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: the following new airworthiness
these service instructions as Aviation Programs, describes in more directive (AD):
Modification 0726819. detail the scope of the Agency’s 2017–10–12 Airbus Helicopters:
authority. Amendment 39–18886; Docket No.
This service information is reasonably We are issuing this rulemaking under FAA–2016–6693; Directorate Identifier
available because the interested parties the authority described in Subtitle VII, 2015–SW–033–AD.
have access to it through their normal Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
course of business or by the means (a) Applicability
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
identified in the ADDRESSES section. section, Congress charges the FAA with This AD applies to Model AS332C,
AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and
Other Related Service Information promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in EC225LP helicopters with an intermediate
air commerce by prescribing regulations gear box (IGB) fairing part number (P/N)
We reviewed Airbus Helicopters for practices, methods, and procedures 332A24–0303–05XX, 332A24–0303–06XX,
EASB No. 53.01.47, Revision 4, for the Administrator finds necessary for 332A08–1391–00, or 332A08–1391–01
Model AS332C, C1, L, L1, L2, and safety in air commerce. This regulation installed, where ‘‘XX’’ is any two
military model B, B1, M, M1, and F1 is within the scope of that authority alphanumeric characters, certificated in any
helicopters and EASB No. 53A001, because it addresses an unsafe condition category.
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Revision 4, for Model EC225 LP and the that is likely to exist or develop on (b) Unsafe Condition
military Model EC725AP helicopters. helicopters identified in this rulemaking This AD defines the unsafe condition as
Both EASBs are part of one document action. detachment of the angle section of an IGB
that is dated September 27, 2011. The and subsequent interference between an IGB
EASBs introduce periodic maintenance Regulatory Findings
fairing and tail rotor inclined drive shaft.
on the fairings and on the fairing’s This AD will not have federalism This condition could result in failure of a tail
attachment angles. implications under Executive Order rotor drive shaft, loss of the tail rotor drive,

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 11, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 31903

and subsequent loss of control of the 06XX, P/N 332A08–1391–00, or P/N (3) For Airbus Helicopters service
helicopter. 332A08–1391–01 on any helicopter. information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive,
(c) Effective Date (f) Credit for Actions Previously Completed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972)
This AD becomes effective August 15, Compliance with Airbus Helicopters 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–
2017. Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 3775; or at https://
53.01.47, and EASB No. 53A001, both www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub/FO/
(d) Compliance Revision 4, and both dated September 27, scripts/myFO_login.php.
You are responsible for performing each 2011, before the effective date of this AD is (4) You may view this service information
action required by this AD within the considered acceptable for compliance with at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
specified compliance time unless it has the initial inspections specified in Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy,
already been accomplished prior to that time. paragraphs (e)(1) and (e)(2) of this AD, but Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
does not constitute terminating action for the information on the availability of this
(e) Required Actions repetitive inspections required by this AD. material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(1) Within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS) (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (5) You may view this service information
and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 15 (AMOCs) that is incorporated by reference at the
hours TIS, visually inspect the IGB fairing National Archives and Records
and the left- and right-hand attachment (1) The Manager, Safety Management
Administration (NARA). For information on
supports for a crack as shown in Figure 2 of Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: David Hatfield, the availability of this material at NARA, call
Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service (202) 741–6030, or go to: http://
Bulletin (EASB) No. 53.01.47, Revision 5, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management
Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
dated March 9, 2015 (EASB No. 53.01.47) or locations.html.
EASB No. 53A001, Revision 5, dated March Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177;
9, 2015 (EASB No. 53A001), as appropriate telephone (817) 222–5116; email 9-ASW- Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 5,
FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. 2017.
for your model helicopter.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 Scott A. Horn,
(i) If there is a crack in an attachment
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
support, replace the attachment support. Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
(ii) If there is a crack in the fairing, replace Aircraft Certification Service.
you notify your principal inspector, or
the IGB fairing with IGB fairing P/N 332A24– lacking a principal inspector, the manager of [FR Doc. 2017–14232 Filed 7–10–17; 8:45 am]
0322–00 in accordance with the the local flight standards district office or BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph certificate holding district office, before
3.B.2, of Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin operating any aircraft complying with this
No. AS332–53.01.78, Revision 0, dated AD through an AMOC.
March 9, 2015 (SB No. AS332–53.01.78) or DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
Service Bulletin No. EC225–53–041, Revision (h) Additional Information SECURITY
0, dated March 9, 2015 (SB No. EC225–53– The subject of this AD is addressed in
041), as appropriate for your model European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD Coast Guard
helicopter. No. 2015–0092, dated May 26, 2015. You
(2) For helicopters with IGB fairing P/N may view the EASA AD on the Internet at 33 CFR Parts 100 and 165
332A24–0303–05XX or P/N 332A24–0303– http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No.
06XX, within 15 hours TIS and thereafter at FAA–2016–6693. [Docket Number USCG–2017–0224]
intervals not to exceed 15 hours TIS, visually
inspect for a crack in the fairing gutter as (i) Subject RIN 1625–AA08, AA00
shown in Figure 1 of EASB No. 53.01.47 or Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
EASB No. 53A001. If there is a crack in the Code: 5350 Aerodynamic Fairings. Special Local Regulations; Safety
fairing gutter: Zones; Recurring Marine Events in
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference Sector Columbia River
(i) Inspect for interference and separation
of the fairing gutter. If there is any (1) The Director of the Federal Register
interference between the gutter and the tail approved the incorporation by reference of AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.
rotor inclined drive shaft tube, replace the the service information listed in this ACTION: Final rule.
tail rotor inclined drive shaft tube. If there is paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
any interference between the gutter and a part 51. SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is
hydraulic pipe, repair or replace the (2) You must use this service information establishing a special local regulation in
hydraulic pipe. If there is any interference as applicable to do the actions required by the Coast Guard Captain of the Port
between the gutter and the flight controls, this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Columbia River Zone for recurring
repair the flight controls in accordance with
Service Bulletin No. 53.01.47, Revision 5, marine events. During the recurring
FAA-approved procedures. If there is any
separation of the gutter, remove the gutter. dated March 9, 2015. events, these regulated areas would be
(ii) Replace the IGB fairing with IGB fairing Note 1 to paragraphs (j)(2)(i) and (ii): activated and would restrict vessels
P/N 332A24–0322–00 in accordance with the Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service from portions of the waterway. These
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph Bulletin No. 53.01.47 and No. 53A001, both events were previously published as
3.B.2, of SB No. AS332–53.01.78 or SB No. Revision 5, and both dated March 9, 2015, safety zones, temporary safety zones or
EC225–53–041. are co-published as one document along with individual regulated areas and have
(3) Within 150 hours TIS, replace the IGB Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service been revised and consolidated into a
fairing P/N 332A24–0303–05XX, 332A24– Bulletin No. 53.00.48, Revision 5, dated
single as special local regulation in
0303–06XX, 332A08–1391–00, or 332A08– March 9, 2015, which is not incorporated by
reference in this AD. order to expedite public notification of
1391–01 with IGB fairing P/N 332A24–0322–
00 in accordance with the Accomplishment events and ensure the protection of the
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2, of SB No. maritime public from hazards associated
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Service Bulletin No. 53A001, Revision 5,
AS332–53.01.78 or SB No. EC225–53–041. dated March 9, 2015. with the annual events.
(4) Replacing the IGB fairing with IGB (iii) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin DATES: This rule is effective July 11,
fairing P/N 332A24–0322–00 is terminating No. AS332–53.01.78, Revision 0, dated 2017.
action for the repetitive inspections required March 9, 2015.
by this AD. (iv) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin ADDRESSES: To view documents
(5) Do not install an IGB fairing P/N No. EC225–53–041, Revision 0, dated March mentioned in this preamble as being
332A24–0303–05XX, P/N 332A24–0303– 9, 2015. available in the docket, go to http://

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Document Created: 2018-11-14 10:22:17
Document Modified: 2018-11-14 10:22:17
Category		Regulatory Information
Collection		Federal Register
sudoc Class		AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106:
Publisher		Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
Section		Rules and Regulations
Action		Final rule.
Dates		This AD is effective August 15, 2017.
Contact		David Hatfield, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5116; email [email protected]
FR Citation		82 FR 31901
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
82 FR 31901 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 131 (July 11, 2017)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
