83 FR 13380 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH)
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 61 (March 29, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 61 (March 29, 2018)
| Page Range | 13380-13383 | |
| FR Document | 2018-06095 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 61 (Thursday, March 29, 2018)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 13380-13383] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-06095] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2017-1011; Product Identifier 2017-SW-004-AD; Amendment 39-19232; AD 2018-07-01] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013-16-14 for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (now Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH) Model EC 135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, T2, and T2+ helicopters. AD 2013-16-14 required installing a washer in and modifying the main transmission filter housing upper part. Since we issued AD 2013-16-14, Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH has extended the overhaul interval for the main transmission and determined that other models may have the same unsafe condition. This AD retains the requirements of AD 2013-16-14, adds models to the applicability, and revises [[Page 13381]] the required compliance time for the modification. The actions of this AD are intended to correct an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective May 3, 2018. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 3, 2018. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of October 9, 2013 (78 FR 54383, September 4, 2013). 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 http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/technical-expert/. You may view this 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-2017- 1011. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2017-1011; or in person at Docket Operations 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 information, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-5527) is Docket Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222- 5110; email [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to remove AD 2013-16-14, Amendment 39-17552 (78 FR 54383, September 4, 2013), and add a new AD. AD 2013-16-14 applied to Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (now Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH) Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, T2, and T2+ helicopters with a certain serial-numbered main transmission FS108 housing upper part (upper part), part number (P/N) 4649 301 034. AD 2013-16-14 required installing a corrugated washer in the upper part filter housing and modifying each affected upper part by machining the oil filter bypass inlet. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on November 3, 2017 (82 FR 51175). The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2017-0002, dated January 9, 2017 (AD 2017-0002), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model EC 135 and EC635 helicopters. EASA advises that some affected upper parts have been re-identified with P/N 4649 301 067 or P/N 4649 301 088 without changing the serial number. EASA further advises that Airbus Helicopters has extended the compliance time to retrofit the housing to 5,150 hours to coincide with the extended interval between transmission overhauls. Accordingly, the NPRM proposed to retain the requirement to install a corrugated washer and modify the upper part and also proposed adding Airbus Helicopters Deutschland Model EC135P3 and Model EC135T3 helicopters and upper part P/N 4649 301 067 and P/N 4649 301 088 to the applicability and extending the compliance time for machining the upper part to 5,150 hours TIS. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD, but we did not receive any comments on the NPRM. FAA's Determination We have reviewed the relevant information and determined that an 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. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) EC135- 63A-017, Revision 2, dated December 5, 2016 (ASB EC135-63A-017), for Model EC135 T1, T2, T2+, T3, P1, P2, P2+, P3, and 635 T1, T2+, T3, P2+, and P3 helicopters. This service information specifies removing the oil filter element and installing a corrugated washer. ASB EC135-63A-017 also specifies reworking the affected upper part at the next repair or overhaul of the main transmission, no later than 5,150 flight hours after receipt of the service bulletin. EASA classified this ASB as mandatory and issued AD 2017-0002 to ensure the continued airworthiness of these helicopters. We also reviewed ZF Luftfahrttechnik GmbH Service Instruction No. EC135FS108-1659-1009, dated September 14, 2010, which specifies procedures for repairing the main transmission upper housing, and includes dimensions and tolerances for machining the upper part. 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 Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin EC135-63A-017, Revision 0, dated October 11, 2010, for Model EC135 T1, T2, T2+, P1, P2, P2+, and 635 T1, T2+, and P2+ helicopters. This service information specifies the same Accomplishment Instructions as ASB EC135-63A-017, Revision 2, except with a shorter compliance time to rework the affected upper part. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 236 helicopters of U.S. Registry. At an average labor rate of $85 per work hour, we estimate that operators will incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Installing the corrugated washer requires about .5 work hour, and required parts cost about $10, for a cost per helicopter of about $53, and a cost to the U.S. operator fleet of $12,508. Machining the housing upper part requires about 5 work hours and required parts cost about $73, for a cost per helicopter of $498, and a total cost to U.S. operators of $117,528. Based on these figures, we estimate the total cost of this AD to be $130,036 for the U.S. operator fleet or $551 per helicopter. According to Airbus Helicopters' service information some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected persons. We do not control warranty coverage by Airbus Helicopters. Accordingly, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. 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 [[Page 13382]] 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 have 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 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 a regulatory distinction is required, 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. 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013-16-14, Amendment 39-17552 (78 FR 54383, September 4, 2013), and adding the following new AD: 2018-07-01 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held By Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH): Amendment 39-19232; Docket No. FAA-2017-1011; Product Identifier 2017-SW-004-AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, P3, T1, T2, T2+, and T3 helicopters with a main transmission FS108 housing upper part, part number (P/N) 4649 301 034, 4649 301 067, or 4649 301 088 and a serial number listed in Table 1 of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC135-63A-017, Revision 2, dated December 5, 2016 (ASB EC135-63A-017), certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as an improperly manufactured bypass inlet in the oil filter area. This condition could adversely affect the oil-filter bypass function, resulting in failure of the main transmission and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2013-16-14, Amendment 39-17552 (78 FR 54383, September 4, 2013). (d) Effective Date This AD becomes effective May 3, 2018. (e) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (f) Required Actions (1) Within 3 months, remove the oil filter element and install a corrugated washer, P/N 0630100377, in the middle of the filter housing of the housing upper part as depicted in Figure 2 of ASB EC135-63A-017. (2) Within 5,150 hours time-in-service or at the next main transmission repair or overhaul, whichever occurs first, machine the main transmission housing upper part in accordance with Annex A of ZF Luftfahrttechnik GmbH Service Instruction No. EC135FS108-1659- 1009, dated September 14, 2010. (3) Do not install a main transmission upper part, P/N 4649 301 034, 4649 301 067, or 4649 301 088, on any helicopter unless it has been modified as required by paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(2) of this AD. (g) Credit for Previous Actions Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in accordance with the procedures specified in Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin EC135-63A-017, Revision 0, dated October 11, 2010, are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in paragraph (f) of this AD. (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; 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. (i) Additional Information (1) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin EC135-63A-017, Revision 0, dated October 11, 2010, which is not incorporated by reference, contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For 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 http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/technical-expert/. You may review a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2017-0002, dated January 9, 2017. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. (j) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6320 Main Rotor Gearbox. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) 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. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on May 3, 2018. (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC135-63A-017, Revision 2, dated December 5, 2016. (ii) Reserved. (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on October 9, 2013 (78 FR 54383, September 4, 2013). (i) ZF Luftfahrttechnik GmbH Service Instruction No. EC135FS108- 1659-1009, dated September 14, 2010. (ii) Reserved. (5) For 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 http://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/technical-expert/. (6) 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. [[Page 13383]] (7) 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 March 19, 2018. Scott A. Horn, Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-06095 Filed 3-28-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![13380 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 61 / Thursday, March 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
were adequately funded and essential to use of the internet and other [Subpart Redesignated as Subpart B
the functionality of the Order, thus no information technologies to provide and Amended]
alternate expenditure levels were increased opportunities for citizen
deemed appropriate. Additionally, access to Government information and ■ 3. Redesignate ‘‘Subpart—Rules and
alternate assessment rates of $0.01 and services, and for other purposes. Regulations’’ as subpart B and revise the
$0.015 per 7/10 bushel-carton were A proposed rule concerning this heading to read as follows:
discussed. However, it was determined action was published in the Federal
that these lower assessment rates would Register on December 4, 2017 (82 FR Subpart B—Administrative
draw too heavily from reserves, roughly 57164). Copies of the proposed rule Requirements
$78,000 and $43,000, respectively. The were also mailed or sent via facsimile to
■ 4. Section 906.235 is revised to read
proposed rate of $0.02 per 7/10 bushel- all Texas citrus handlers. Finally, the
as follows:
carton would draw an anticipated proposal was made available through
$2,800 from reserves, thereby leaving the internet by USDA and the Office of § 906.235 Assessment rate.
reserves intact for future needs. the Federal Register. A 30-day comment On and after August 1, 2017, an
A review of historical information and period ending January 3, 2018, was assessment rate of $0.02 per 7/10-bushel
preliminary information pertaining to provided for interested persons to carton or equivalent is established for
the upcoming fiscal period indicates respond to the proposal. Two comments oranges and grapefruit grown in the
that the average grower price for the were received, one in support of the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas.
2017–18 season should be change, and one comment outside the
approximately $15.50 per 7/10-bushel scope of this action. One commenter in [Subpart Redesignated as Subpart C]
carton or equivalent of oranges and support of the action stated that the
grapefruit. Therefore, the estimated reduced rate is fair and continues to ■ 5. Redesignate ‘‘Subpart—Container
assessment revenue for the 2017–18 allow the Committee to pay its and Pack Requirements’’ as ‘‘Subpart
crop year as a percentage of total grower expenses. Administrative revisions to C—Container and Pack Requirements.’’
revenue would be about 0.1 percent. the subpart headings were included in Dated: March 23, 2018.
This action decreases the assessment the proposed rule. No comments were Bruce Summers,
obligation imposed on handlers. received on those changes. Accordingly,
Assessments are applied uniformly on Acting Administrator, Agricultural Marketing
no changes will be made to the rule as Service.
all handlers, and some of the costs may proposed, based on the comments
be passed on to producers. However, [FR Doc. 2018–06282 Filed 3–28–18; 8:45 am]
received.
decreasing the assessment rate reduces A small business guide on complying
BILLING CODE 3410–02–P
the burden on handlers, and may reduce with fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop
the burden on producers. marketing agreements and orders may
The Committee’s meeting was widely be viewed at: http://www.ams.usda.gov/ DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
publicized throughout the Texas citrus rules-regulations/moa/small-businesses.
industry and all interested persons were Federal Aviation Administration
Any questions about the compliance
invited to attend the meeting and guide should be sent to Richard Lower
participate in Committee deliberations 14 CFR Part 39
at the previously mentioned address in
on all issues. Like all Committee the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT [Docket No. FAA–2017–1011; Product
meetings, the August 8, 2017, meeting section. Identifier 2017–SW–004–AD; Amendment
was a public meeting and all entities, After consideration of all relevant 39–19232; AD 2018–07–01]
both large and small, were able to material presented, including the RIN 2120–AA64
express views on this issue. information and recommendation
In accordance with the Paperwork Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
submitted by the Committee and other
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type
available information, it is hereby found
Chapter 35), the Order’s information Certificate Previously Held by
that this rule will tend to effectuate the
collection requirements have been Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH)
declared policy of the Act.
previously approved by OMB and
assigned OMB No. 0581–0189, Fruit List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 906 AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Crops. No changes in those Grapefruit, Marketing agreements, Administration (FAA), DOT.
requirements as a result of this action Oranges, Reporting and recordkeeping ACTION: Final rule.
are necessary. Should any changes requirements.
become necessary, they would be SUMMARY: We are superseding
For the reasons set forth in the Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–16–
submitted to OMB for approval. preamble, 7 CFR part 906 is amended as
This rule imposes no additional 14 for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH
follows: (now Airbus Helicopters Deutschland
reporting or recordkeeping requirements
on either small or large Texas orange PART 906—ORANGES AND GmbH) Model EC 135 P1, P2, P2+, T1,
and grapefruit handlers. As with all GRAPEFRUIT GROWN IN LOWER RIO T2, and T2+ helicopters. AD 2013–16–
Federal marketing order programs, GRANDE VALLEY IN TEXAS 14 required installing a washer in and
reports and forms are periodically modifying the main transmission filter
reviewed to reduce information ■ 1. The authority citation for 7 CFR housing upper part. Since we issued AD
requirements and duplication by part 906 continues to read as follows: 2013–16–14, Airbus Helicopters
rmajette on DSKBCKNHB2PROD with RULES
industry and public sector agencies. As Deutschland GmbH has extended the
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601–674.
noted in the initial regulatory flexibility overhaul interval for the main
analysis, USDA has not identified any [Subpart Redesignated as Subpart A] transmission and determined that other
relevant Federal rules that duplicate, models may have the same unsafe
overlap, or conflict with this final rule. ■ 2. Redesignate ‘‘Subpart—Order condition. This AD retains the
AMS is committed to complying with Regulating Handling’’ as ‘‘Subpart A— requirements of AD 2013–16–14, adds
the E-Government Act, to promote the Order Regulating Handling.’’ models to the applicability, and revises
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detail the scope of the Agency’s 2018–07–01 Airbus Helicopters Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
authority. Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177;
We are issuing this rulemaking under Previously Held By Eurocopter telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASW-
Deutschland GmbH): Amendment 39– FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
the authority described in Subtitle VII, 19232; Docket No. FAA–2017–1011; (2) For operations conducted under a 14
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, Product Identifier 2017–SW–004–AD. CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
section, Congress charges the FAA with (a) Applicability
you notify your principal inspector, or
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in This AD applies to Model EC135 P1, P2, lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
air commerce by prescribing regulations P2+, P3, T1, T2, T2+, and T3 helicopters with the local flight standards district office or
for practices, methods, and procedures a main transmission FS108 housing upper certificate holding district office, before
part, part number (P/N) 4649 301 034, 4649 operating any aircraft complying with this
the Administrator finds necessary for 301 067, or 4649 301 088 and a serial number
safety in air commerce. This regulation AD through an AMOC.
listed in Table 1 of Airbus Helicopters Alert
is within the scope of that authority Service Bulletin EC135–63A–017, Revision 2, (i) Additional Information
because it addresses an unsafe condition dated December 5, 2016 (ASB EC135–63A– (1) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin
that is likely to exist or develop on 017), certificated in any category. EC135–63A–017, Revision 0, dated October
products identified in this rulemaking (b) Unsafe Condition 11, 2010, which is not incorporated by
action. reference, contains additional information
This AD defines the unsafe condition as an about the subject of this AD. For service
Regulatory Findings improperly manufactured bypass inlet in the information identified in this AD, contact
oil filter area. This condition could adversely Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive,
We have determined that this AD will affect the oil-filter bypass function, resulting
not have federalism implications under Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972)
in failure of the main transmission and
641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–
Executive Order 13132. This AD will subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
3775; or at http://
not have a substantial direct effect on (c) Affected ADs www.airbushelicopters.com/website/
the States, on the relationship between technical-expert/. You may review a copy of
the national government and the States, This AD replaces AD 2013–16–14,
Amendment 39–17552 (78 FR 54383, the service information at the FAA, Office of
or on the distribution of power and September 4, 2013). the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
responsibilities among the various 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort
levels of government. (d) Effective Date Worth, TX 76177.
For the reasons discussed above, I This AD becomes effective May 3, 2018. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
certify that this AD: European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
(e) Compliance No. 2017–0002, dated January 9, 2017. You
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory You are responsible for performing each may view the EASA AD on the internet at
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, action required by this AD within the http://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket.
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under specified compliance time unless it has (j) Subject
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures already been accomplished prior to that time.
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
(f) Required Actions Code: 6320 Main Rotor Gearbox.
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska to the extent that a regulatory (1) Within 3 months, remove the oil filter (k) Material Incorporated by Reference
element and install a corrugated washer, P/
distinction is required, and N 0630100377, in the middle of the filter (1) The Director of the Federal Register
(4) Will not have a significant housing of the housing upper part as approved the incorporation by reference
economic impact, positive or negative, depicted in Figure 2 of ASB EC135–63A–017. (IBR) of the service information listed in this
on a substantial number of small entities (2) Within 5,150 hours time-in-service or at paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
under the criteria of the Regulatory the next main transmission repair or part 51.
Flexibility Act. overhaul, whichever occurs first, machine (2) You must use this service information
the main transmission housing upper part in as applicable to do the actions required by
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 accordance with Annex A of ZF this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
Luftfahrttechnik GmbH Service Instruction (3) The following service information was
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation approved for IBR on May 3, 2018.
No. EC135FS108–1659–1009, dated
safety, Incorporation by reference, September 14, 2010. (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Safety. (3) Do not install a main transmission Bulletin EC135–63A–017, Revision 2, dated
upper part, P/N 4649 301 034, 4649 301 067, December 5, 2016.
Adoption of the Amendment (ii) Reserved.
or 4649 301 088, on any helicopter unless it
Accordingly, under the authority has been modified as required by paragraphs (4) The following service information was
delegated to me by the Administrator, (f)(1) through (f)(2) of this AD. approved for IBR on October 9, 2013 (78 FR
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as 54383, September 4, 2013).
(g) Credit for Previous Actions (i) ZF Luftfahrttechnik GmbH Service
follows:
Actions accomplished before the effective Instruction No. EC135FS108–1659–1009,
date of this AD in accordance with the dated September 14, 2010.
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
procedures specified in Eurocopter Alert (ii) Reserved.
DIRECTIVES (5) For service information identified in
Service Bulletin EC135–63A–017, Revision 0,
dated October 11, 2010, are considered this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N.
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 acceptable for compliance with the Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
continues to read as follows: corresponding actions specified in paragraph telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323;
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. (f) of this AD. fax (972) 641–3775; or at http://
www.airbushelicopters.com/website/
rmajette on DSKBCKNHB2PROD with RULES
§ 39.13 [Amended] (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance technical-expert/.
(AMOCs) (6) You may view this service information
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by (1) The Manager, Safety Management at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy,
2013–16–14, Amendment 39-17552 (78 may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
FR 54383, September 4, 2013), and proposal to: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety information on the availability of this
adding the following new AD: Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 61 / Thursday, March 29, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 13383
(7) You may view this service information 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Request the Removal of Multi-Segment
that is incorporated by reference at the Washington, DC 20590. Couplings From All Airplanes
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul Gryko recommended removal of
the availability of this material at NARA, call Thomas Teplik, Aerospace Engineer, multi-segment couplings from all
(202) 741–6030, or go to: http:// Wichita ACO Branch, FAA, 1801 airplanes and replace with one-piece
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- Airport Road, Room 100, Wichita, couplings. The commenter discussed
locations.html. Kansas 67209; phone: (316) 946–4196; other airplane models that have the
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 19, fax: (316) 946–4107; email: multi-segment coupling installed and
2018. thomas.teplik@faa.gov. other AD actions affecting exhaust
Scott A. Horn, tailpipe v-band couplings. The
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, commenter discussed that multi-
Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Discussion segment couplings may have different
Aircraft Certification Service. part numbers on different airplanes with
We issued a supplemental notice of different torque values. Having one one-
[FR Doc. 2018–06095 Filed 3–28–18; 8:45 am] proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
piece coupling with the same torque
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD value for use on all airplanes would
that would apply to certain Textron benefit the industry. The commenter
Aviation Inc. Models A36TC, B36TC, discussed the possibility of expanding
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION S35, V35, V35A, and V35B airplanes. the scope of this AD or issuing a
Federal Aviation Administration The SNPRM published in the Federal different AD action.
Register on November 8, 2017 (82 FR We do not agree with this comment.
14 CFR Part 39 51782). The FAA has determined that an unsafe
We preceded the SNPRM with a condition exists on certain Models
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0288; Product notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) A36TC, B36TC, S35, V35, V35A, and
Identifier 2017–CE–007–AD; Amendment
that published in the Federal Register V35B airplanes. This AD addresses the
39–19231; AD 2018–06–11]
on April 12, 2017 (82 FR 17594). The unsafe condition on those specific
RIN 2120–AA64 NPRM proposed to add a life limit to the airplanes. Including the actions of this
exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling AD on other airplane models that may
Airworthiness Directives; Textron (clamp) and, if the coupling is removed have the affected exhaust tailpipe v-
Aviation Inc. Airplanes for any reason before the life limit is band coupling installed goes beyond the
AGENCY: Federal Aviation reached, require an inspection of the v- scope of this AD. However, the FAA is
Administration (FAA), DOT. band coupling before reinstalling. The looking at the possibility of this unsafe
ACTION: Final rule. NPRM was prompted by a fatal accident condition affecting other airplanes.
where the exhaust tailpipe fell off We have not changed this AD based
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new during takeoff. on this comment.
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The SNPRM proposed to add to the Request To Expand the Scope of the AD
Textron Aviation Inc. Models A36TC, applicability of the AD, add a life limit to All Airplanes Equipped With
B36TC, S35, V35, V35A, and V35B to the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling Continental TSIO–520 Engines
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a (clamp) that attaches the exhaust
fatal accident where the exhaust tailpipe Dustin Todd requested we expand the
tailpipe to the turbocharger, and require
fell off during takeoff. This AD adds a AD to all Textron airplanes equipped
an annual visual inspection of the
life limit to the exhaust tailpipe v-band with TSIO–520 engines and to require
exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling
coupling (clamp) that attaches the inspection of all areas of the
(clamp). We are issuing this AD to
exhaust tailpipe to the turbocharger and turbocharger exhaust pipe. During a 50-
address the unsafe condition on these
requires an annual visual inspection of hour oil change, he found a crack in the
products.
the exhaust tailpipe v-band coupling turbocharger exhaust pipe. The crack
(clamp). We are issuing this AD to Comments appeared to have originated beneath the
address the unsafe condition on these coupling. Removal of the coupling is not
We gave the public the opportunity to required during 100-hour or annual
products. participate in developing this final rule. inspections, so the crack could go
DATES: This AD is effective May 3, 2018. The following presents the comments undetected for hours or years.
ADDRESSES: received on the SNPRM and the FAA’s We disagree with this comment. The
response to each comment. FAA has determined that an unsafe
Examining the AD Docket
Support of the AD Action condition exists on certain Models
You may examine the AD docket on A36TC, B36TC, S35, V35, V35A, and
the internet at http:// Michelle Prengle agrees with the AD V35B airplanes. This AD requires a life
www.regulations.gov by searching for action. She states, ‘‘I am the daughter of limit replacement and inspection of the
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– the pilot from which this AD is exhaust tailpipe v-band couplings as
0288; or in person at Docket Operations prompted. My brothers and I lost our installed on those affected airplanes. To
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday father and stepmother in this accident. include all Textron airplanes equipped
through Friday, except Federal holidays. I want people to know that my father with Continental TSIO–520 engines and
The AD docket contains this final rule, loved to fly and believed that flying was to require inspection of all areas of the
rmajette on DSKBCKNHB2PROD with RULES
the regulatory evaluation, any the safest form of transportation. I wish turbocharger exhaust pipe would be
comments received, and other that this AD be implemented to honor beyond the scope of this AD. However,
information. The address for Docket what my father truly believed, that the FAA is looking at the possibility of
Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is flying is the safest form of this unsafe condition affecting other
U.S. Department of Transportation, transportation. I believe it will provide airplanes.
Docket Operations, M–30, West one more measure that will save lives in We have not changed this AD based
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, the future.’’ on this comment.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:09 Mar 28, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\29MRR1.SGM 29MRR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/83_FR_13441/page/4.svg)
Document Created: 2018-03-29 00:24:51
Document Modified: 2018-03-29 00:24:51
| 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 May 3, 2018. | |
| Contact | Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222- 5110; email [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 13380 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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