82 FR 716 - Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 2 (January 4, 2017)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 2 (January 4, 2017)
| Page Range | 716-718 | |
| FR Document | 2016-30832 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 4, 2017)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 716-718] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-30832] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-0733; Directorate Identifier 2015-SW-040-AD; Amendment 39-18762; AD 2016-26-04] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model R44, R44 II, and R66 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the main rotor blade (MRB). This AD was prompted by a determination that some MRBs may have reduced blade thickness due to blending out corrosion. The actions are intended to prevent the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective February 8, 2017. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of February 8, 2017. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; telephone (310) 539-0508; fax (310) 539-5198; or at http://www.robinsonheli.com. You may review a copy of 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-2016-0733. 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- 0733; 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, 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: Eric Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627-5348; email [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion On May 27, 2016, at 81 FR 33609, 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 Robinson Model R44 and R44 II helicopters with an MRB part number (P/N) C016-7, Revision N/C, A through Z, and AA through AE; and Model R66 helicopters with an MRB P/N F016-2, Revision A through E. The NPRM proposed to require a one-time visual inspection of the MRB for a crack, corrosion, dent, nick, and scratch and either altering the MRB or removing it from service. The NPRM was prompted by a report of a fatigue crack on a Model R44 II helicopter at the MRB trailing edge that had grown to reach the blade spar. The FAA subsequently determined that some MRBs may have reduced blade fatigue resistance due to repair by blending out corrosion in the area of the crack site radius. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent an MRB fatigue crack, which could lead to MRB failure and subsequent loss of helicopter control. Comments After our NPRM (81 FR 33609, May 27, 2016) was published, we received a comment from one commenter. Request Robinson requested we change the applicability of the AD for part number (P/N) C016-7 from ``Revision N/C, A through Z, and AA through AE'' to ``Revision AA through AE.'' Robinson stated that P/N C016-7 did not exist until Revision AA and suggested that some technicians may wrongfully apply the proposed AD to P/N C016-5 Revisions W thru Z. We agree and have revised the AD accordingly. FAA's Determination We have reviewed the relevant information, considered the comment received, and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed with the change previously described. This change is consistent with the intent of the proposals in the NPRM (81 FR 33609, May 27, 2016) and will not increase the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB-89, dated March 30, 2015 (SB-89), for Model R44 and R44 II helicopters and Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB-13, dated March 30, 2015 (SB-13), for Model R66 helicopters. SB-89 and SB-13 provide a one-time procedure to inspect each MRB for cracks, corrosion, and damage that may indicate a crack. If there is a crack, corrosion, or any damage, SB-89 and SB-13 specify removing the MRB from service and contacting Robinson. Otherwise, SB-89 and SB-13 describe procedures to smooth the transition at the chord increase of each MRB to reduce the stress concentration. 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. [[Page 717]] Differences Between This AD and the Service Information This AD requires compliance within the next 100 hours time-in- service (TIS) or at the next annual inspection, whichever occurs first. The service information recommends compliance within 15 hours TIS or by May 31, 2015, whichever occurs first, for the R44 and R44 II helicopters and 10 hours TIS or by May 31, 2015, whichever occurs first, for the R66 helicopters. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 2,236 helicopters of U.S. Registry and that labor costs average $85 per work hour. Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs:The visual inspection requires 1 work hour. No parts are needed, so the cost per helicopter totals $85. The cost for the U.S. fleet totals $190,060. Altering each MRB, if necessary, requires 2 work hours and $65 for parts. We estimate a total cost of $235 per helicopter and $525,460 for the U.S. fleet. Replacing an MRB, if necessary, requires 3 work hours. Parts cost $19,900 for the Model R44 and R44 II and $20,900 for the R66 helicopter for a total cost of $20,155 and $21,155, respectively, per MRB. 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 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): 2016-26-04 Robinson Helicopter Company: Amendment 39-18762; Docket No. FAA-2016-0733; Directorate Identifier 2015-SW-040-AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model R44 and R44 II helicopters with a main rotor blade (MRB) part number (P/N) C016-7, Revision AA through AE installed; and Model R66 helicopters with a MRB P/N F016-2, Revision A through E, installed; certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a fatigue crack on an MRB. This condition could result in failure of an MRB and loss of helicopter control. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective February 8, 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 Within 100 hours time-in-service or at the next annual inspection, whichever occurs first: (1) Clean each MRB in the area depicted in Figure 1 of Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB-89, dated March 30, 2015 (SB-89), or Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB-13, dated March 30, 2015 (SB-13), as applicable to your model helicopter. (2) Using 10X or higher power magnification and a light, visually inspect the upper and lower MRB surfaces and trailing edge as depicted in Figure 1 of SB-89 or SB-13, whichever applies to your helicopter, for a crack, a nick, a scratch, a dent, or corrosion. If there is a crack, a nick, a scratch, a dent, or any corrosion, repair the MRB to an airworthy configuration if the damage is within the maximum repair damage limits or remove the MRB from service. (3) Alter the MRB in accordance with Compliance Procedure, paragraphs 4 through 19, of SB-89 or SB-13, as applicable to your model helicopter. Equivalent tubing may be used for R7769-1 and R7769-6 tubes. Power tools may not be used for this procedure. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Eric Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627- 5348; 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) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6210, Main Rotor Blades. (h) 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) Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB-89, dated March 30, 2015. (ii) Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB-13, dated March 30, 2015. (3) For Robinson Helicopter Company service information identified in this AD, contact Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; telephone (310) 539-0508; fax (310) 539-5198; or at http://www.robinsonheli.com. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, [[Page 718]] 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 December 15, 2016. Stephen Barbini, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2016-30832 Filed 1-3-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![716 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 2 / Wednesday, January 4, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
(2) You must use this service information ADDRESSES: For service information some MRBs may have reduced blade
as applicable to do the actions required by identified in this final rule, contact fatigue resistance due to repair by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 blending out corrosion in the area of the
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6176, Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; crack site radius. The proposed
dated May 20, 2015.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300–53–6177,
telephone (310) 539–0508; fax (310) requirements were intended to prevent
dated May 20, 2015. 539–5198; or at http:// an MRB fatigue crack, which could lead
(3) For service information identified in www.robinsonheli.com. You may review to MRB failure and subsequent loss of
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness a copy of the referenced service helicopter control.
Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice information at the FAA, Office of the
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
Comments
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, After our NPRM (81 FR 33609, May
93 44 51; email: account.airworth-eas@ Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also 27, 2016) was published, we received a
airbus.com; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. available on the Internet at http:// comment from one commenter.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
www.regulations.gov by searching for Request
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
0733. Robinson requested we change the
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
applicability of the AD for part number
Examining the AD Docket (P/N) C016–7 from ‘‘Revision N/C, A
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the You may examine the AD docket on through Z, and AA through AE’’ to
National Archives and Records the Internet at http:// ‘‘Revision AA through AE.’’ Robinson
Administration (NARA). For information on www.regulations.gov by searching for stated that P/N C016–7 did not exist
the availability of this material at NARA, call and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– until Revision AA and suggested that
202–741–6030, or go to: http:// 0733; or in person at the Docket some technicians may wrongfully apply
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- the proposed AD to P/N C016–5
locations.html.
Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Revisions W thru Z.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on Federal holidays. The AD docket We agree and have revised the AD
December 6, 2016. contains this AD, any incorporated-by- accordingly.
Dionne Palermo, reference service information, the FAA’s Determination
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane economic evaluation, any comments
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. We have reviewed the relevant
received, and other information. The
[FR Doc. 2016–30117 Filed 1–3–17; 8:45 am] information, considered the comment
street address for the Docket Operations
received, and determined that an unsafe
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S.
condition exists and is likely to exist or
Department of Transportation, Docket
develop on other products of these same
Operations Office, M–30, West Building
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION type designs and that air safety and the
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
public interest require adopting the AD
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
Federal Aviation Administration requirements as proposed with the
DC 20590.
change previously described. This
14 CFR Part 39 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric change is consistent with the intent of
Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los the proposals in the NPRM (81 FR
[Docket No. FAA–2016–0733; Directorate Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 33609, May 27, 2016) and will not
Identifier 2015–SW–040–AD; Amendment Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, increase the economic burden on any
39–18762; AD 2016–26–04] 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, operator nor increase the scope of the
California 90712; telephone (562) 627– AD.
RIN 2120–AA64
5348; email eric.schrieber@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Related Service Information Under 1
Airworthiness Directives; Robinson CFR Part 51
Helicopter Company Helicopters Discussion
We reviewed Robinson R44 Service
AGENCY: Federal Aviation On May 27, 2016, at 81 FR 33609, the Bulletin SB–89, dated March 30, 2015
Administration (FAA), DOT. Federal Register published our notice of (SB–89), for Model R44 and R44 II
ACTION: Final rule. proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which helicopters and Robinson R66 Service
proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by Bulletin SB–13, dated March 30, 2015
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new adding an AD that would apply to (SB–13), for Model R66 helicopters. SB–
airworthiness directive (AD) for Robinson Model R44 and R44 II 89 and SB–13 provide a one-time
Robinson Helicopter Company helicopters with an MRB part number procedure to inspect each MRB for
(Robinson) Model R44, R44 II, and R66 (P/N) C016–7, Revision N/C, A through cracks, corrosion, and damage that may
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting Z, and AA through AE; and Model R66 indicate a crack. If there is a crack,
the main rotor blade (MRB). This AD helicopters with an MRB P/N F016–2, corrosion, or any damage, SB–89 and
was prompted by a determination that Revision A through E. The NPRM SB–13 specify removing the MRB from
some MRBs may have reduced blade proposed to require a one-time visual service and contacting Robinson.
thickness due to blending out corrosion. inspection of the MRB for a crack, Otherwise, SB–89 and SB–13 describe
The actions are intended to prevent the corrosion, dent, nick, and scratch and procedures to smooth the transition at
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
unsafe condition on these products. either altering the MRB or removing it the chord increase of each MRB to
DATES: This AD is effective February 8, from service. reduce the stress concentration.
2017. The NPRM was prompted by a report This service information is reasonably
The Director of the Federal Register of a fatigue crack on a Model R44 II available because the interested parties
approved the incorporation by reference helicopter at the MRB trailing edge that have access to it through their normal
of certain documents listed in this AD had grown to reach the blade spar. The course of business or by the means
as of February 8, 2017. FAA subsequently determined that identified in the ADDRESSES section.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 2 / Wednesday, January 4, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 717
Differences Between This AD and the responsibilities among the various (e) Required Actions
Service Information levels of government. Within 100 hours time-in-service or at the
For the reasons discussed above, I next annual inspection, whichever occurs
This AD requires compliance within
certify that this AD: first:
the next 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory (1) Clean each MRB in the area depicted in
or at the next annual inspection, action’’ under Executive Order 12866; Figure 1 of Robinson R44 Service Bulletin
whichever occurs first. The service (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under SB–89, dated March 30, 2015 (SB–89), or
information recommends compliance DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB–13, dated
within 15 hours TIS or by May 31, 2015, March 30, 2015 (SB–13), as applicable to
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); your model helicopter.
whichever occurs first, for the R44 and (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
R44 II helicopters and 10 hours TIS or (2) Using 10X or higher power
in Alaska to the extent that it justifies magnification and a light, visually inspect
by May 31, 2015, whichever occurs first, making a regulatory distinction; and the upper and lower MRB surfaces and
for the R66 helicopters. (4) Will not have a significant trailing edge as depicted in Figure 1 of SB–
Costs of Compliance economic impact, positive or negative, 89 or SB–13, whichever applies to your
on a substantial number of small entities helicopter, for a crack, a nick, a scratch, a
We estimate that this AD affects 2,236 under the criteria of the Regulatory dent, or corrosion. If there is a crack, a nick,
helicopters of U.S. Registry and that Flexibility Act. a scratch, a dent, or any corrosion, repair the
labor costs average $85 per work hour. We prepared an economic evaluation MRB to an airworthy configuration if the
Based on these estimates, we expect the damage is within the maximum repair
of the estimated costs to comply with
following costs: damage limits or remove the MRB from
this AD and placed it in the AD docket. service.
• The visual inspection requires 1 (3) Alter the MRB in accordance with
work hour. No parts are needed, so the List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Compliance Procedure, paragraphs 4 through
cost per helicopter totals $85. The cost Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation 19, of SB–89 or SB–13, as applicable to your
for the U.S. fleet totals $190,060. safety, Incorporation by reference, model helicopter. Equivalent tubing may be
• Altering each MRB, if necessary, Safety. used for R7769–1 and R7769–6 tubes. Power
requires 2 work hours and $65 for parts. Adoption of the Amendment
tools may not be used for this procedure.
We estimate a total cost of $235 per (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
helicopter and $525,460 for the U.S. Accordingly, under the authority
(AMOCs)
fleet. delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft
• Replacing an MRB, if necessary, Certification Office, FAA, may approve
requires 3 work hours. Parts cost follows:
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to:
$19,900 for the Model R44 and R44 II Eric Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
and $20,900 for the R66 helicopter for Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
DIRECTIVES Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960
a total cost of $20,155 and $21,155,
respectively, per MRB. Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
90712; telephone (562) 627–5348; email 9-
Authority for This Rulemaking continues to read as follows: ANM-LAACO-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
Title 49 of the United States Code Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. (2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue § 39.13 [Amended] 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding you notify your principal inspector, or
section 106, describes the authority of the following new airworthiness lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: directive (AD): the local flight standards district office or
Aviation Programs, describes in more certificate holding district office before
detail the scope of the Agency’s 2016–26–04 Robinson Helicopter Company: operating any aircraft complying with this
Amendment 39–18762; Docket No. AD through an AMOC.
authority. FAA–2016–0733; Directorate Identifier
We are issuing this rulemaking under 2015–SW–040–AD. (g) Subject
the authority described in Subtitle VII, Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: (a) Applicability
Code: 6210, Main Rotor Blades.
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter
section, Congress charges the FAA with Company (Robinson) Model R44 and R44 II (h) Material Incorporated by Reference
helicopters with a main rotor blade (MRB) (1) The Director of the Federal Register
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in part number (P/N) C016–7, Revision AA
air commerce by prescribing regulations approved the incorporation by reference of
through AE installed; and Model R66 the service information listed in this
for practices, methods, and procedures helicopters with a MRB P/N F016–2,
the Administrator finds necessary for paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
Revision A through E, installed; certificated
part 51.
safety in air commerce. This regulation in any category.
(2) You must use this service information
is within the scope of that authority (b) Unsafe Condition as applicable to do the actions required by
because it addresses an unsafe condition this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
that is likely to exist or develop on fatigue crack on an MRB. This condition (i) Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB–89,
products identified in this rulemaking could result in failure of an MRB and loss of dated March 30, 2015.
action. helicopter control. (ii) Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB–13,
dated March 30, 2015.
Regulatory Findings (c) Effective Date (3) For Robinson Helicopter Company
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
This AD will not have federalism This AD becomes effective February 8, service information identified in this AD,
2017. contact Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901
implications under Executive Order
Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; telephone
13132. This AD will not have a (d) Compliance (310) 539–0508; fax (310) 539–5198; or at
substantial direct effect on the States, on You are responsible for performing each http://www.robinsonheli.com.
the relationship between the national action required by this AD within the (4) You may view this service information
government and the States, or on the specified compliance time unless it has at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
distribution of power and already been accomplished prior to that time. Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy,
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![718 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 2 / Wednesday, January 4, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For ADDRESSES: For service information also proposed to require modification of
information on the availability of this identified in this final rule, contact the electrical installation of the fuel
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. EADS CASA (Airbus Defense and booster pumps. We are issuing this AD
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
Space), Services/Engineering Support, to prevent damage to certain fuel
National Archives and Records Avenida de Aragón 404, 28022 Madrid, booster pumps, which could create an
Administration (NARA). For information on Spain; telephone: +34 91 585 55 84; fax: ignition source in the fuel tank vapor
the availability of this material at NARA, call +34 91 585 31 27; email: space, and result in a fuel tank
(202) 741–6030, or go to: http:// MTA.TechnicalService@Airbus.com. explosion and consequent loss of the
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- You may view this referenced service airplane.
locations.html. information at the FAA, Transport The European Aviation Safety Agency
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on December Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
15, 2016. SW., Renton, WA. For information on for the Member States of the European
Stephen Barbini, the availability of this material at the Union, has issued EASA AD 2016–0014,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also dated January 14, 2016 (referred to after
Aircraft Certification Service. available on the Internet at http:// this as the Mandatory Continuing
[FR Doc. 2016–30832 Filed 1–3–17; 8:45 am] www.regulations.gov by searching for Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
9109. for all Airbus Defense and Space S.A.
Model CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Examining the AD Docket
200, CN–235–300, and C–295 airplanes.
You may examine the AD docket on The MCAI states:
Federal Aviation Administration the Internet at http:// An occurrence with a CN–235 aeroplane
www.regulations.gov by searching for was reported, involving an in-flight problem
14 CFR Part 39 and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– with the fuel transfer system. The results of
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9109; Directorate 9109; or in person at the Docket the subsequent investigation revealed
Identifier 2016–NM–011–AD; Amendment Management Facility between 9 a.m. damage on the fuel booster pump electrical
39–18761; AD 2016–26–03] and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, feeding cable and some burn marks on the
except Federal holidays. The AD docket pump body and plate (fairing) at the external
RIN 2120–AA64 side of the fuel tank; confirmed electrical
contains this AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and arcing between the wire and pump body; and
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus revealed fuel leakage onto the affected wire.
Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly other information. The address for the This condition, if not detected and
Known as Construcciones Docket Office (telephone: 800–647– corrected, could create an ignition source in
Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes 5527) is Docket Management Facility, the fuel tank vapour space, possibly resulting
U.S. Department of Transportation, in a fuel tank explosion and loss of the
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Docket Operations, M–30, West aeroplane.
Administration (FAA), Department of Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, To address this potential unsafe condition,
Transportation (DOT). 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., EADS CASA (Airbus Military) issued All
ACTION: Final rule. Washington, DC 20590. Operators Letter (AOL) 235–025 and AOL
295–025, providing inspection instructions
SUMMARY: We are superseding FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: for the affected fuel booster pumps, Part
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–23– Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Number (P/N) 1C12–34 and P/N 1C12–46.
02 for all Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Engineer, International Branch, ANM– Consequently, EASA issued AD 2013–0186
Model CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, [which corresponds to FAA AD 2013–23–02]
200, CN–235–300, and C–295 airplanes. FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, to require a one-time [detailed visual]
AD 2013–23–02 required an inspection WA 98057–3356; telephone: 425–227– inspection of the affected fuel booster pumps
1112; fax: 425–227–1149. to detect damage and, depending on findings,
of the feeder cables of certain fuel
replacement of the fuel booster pump. That
booster pumps for damage (including, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: [EASA] AD also required reporting of all
but not limited to, signs of electrical findings to EADS CASA for evaluation.
arcing and fuel leaks), and replacement Discussion
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus
if necessary. This new AD retains those We issued a notice of proposed Defence and Space (D&S) developed [a]
requirements and also requires rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR modification of the fuel boost pump
modification of the electrical part 39 to supersede AD 2013–23–02, electrical installation, available for in-service
installation of the fuel booster pumps. Amendment 39–17657 (78 FR 68688, application through Airbus D&S Service
This AD was prompted by a report of an November 15, 2013) (‘‘AD 2013–23– Bulletin (SB) 235–28–0023. That
in-flight problem with the fuel transfer modification involves improved protection of
02’’). AD 2013–23–02 applied to all
the output of affected fuel pump harness
system. We are issuing this AD to Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model avoiding undesired electrical contacts and
address the unsafe condition on these CN–235, CN–235–100, CN–235–200, preventing potential arcing between the
products. CN–235–300, and C–295 airplanes. The affected harness and metallic parts of the fuel
DATES: This AD is effective February 8, NPRM published in the Federal boost cover.
2017. Register on September 19, 2016 (81 FR For the reasons described above this
The Director of the Federal Register 64080). The NPRM was prompted by a [EASA] AD partially retains the requirements
approved the incorporation by reference report of an in-flight problem with the of EASA AD 2013–0186, which is
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
fuel transfer system. The NPRM superseded, and requires modification of the
of a certain publication listed in this AD
proposed to continue to require an fuel pump electrical installation.
as of February 8, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register inspection of the feeder cables of certain You may examine the MCAI in the
approved the incorporation by reference fuel booster pumps for damage AD docket on the Internet at http://
of certain other publications listed in (including, but not limited to, signs of www.regulations.gov by searching for
this AD as of December 2, 2013 (78 FR electrical arcing and fuel leaks), and and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
68688, November 15, 2013). replacement if necessary. The NPRM 9109.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:22 Jan 03, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\04JAR1.SGM 04JAR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_718/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2017-01-04 00:29:12
Document Modified: 2017-01-04 00:29:12
| 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 February 8, 2017. | |
| Contact | Eric Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627-5348; email [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 82 FR 716 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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