83 FR 17510 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 77 (April 20, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 77 (April 20, 2018)
| Page Range | 17510-17512 | |
| FR Document | 2018-08097 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 77 (Friday, April 20, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 17510-17512] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-08097] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-9395; Product Identifier 2016-SW-027-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for various Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB-BK117 and Model BO-105 helicopters. This proposed AD would require removing the swashplate bellows (bellows) and repetitively inspecting the swashplate assembly. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of loose and missing clamps installed on bellows. The proposed actions are intended to detect and prevent an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 19, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. Fax: 202-493-2251. Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001. Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016- 9395; 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 proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this proposed 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/techpub. You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit only one time. We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive. Discussion EASA, which is the aviation authority for Germany, has issued AD No. 2016-0142, dated July 19, 2016, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117A-1, MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, MBB-BK 117C-1, MBB-BK 117C-2, MBB-BK 117C-2e, BO-105A, BO-105C, BO-105D, BO105S, BO-105LS A-3 helicopters. EASA advises of several reports of a lower clamp found missing from the bellows and damaging the swashplate bearing ring before becoming detached. EASA states an investigation showed that over-torqueing can damage the clamp, which may have caused the clamp to become loose and detach. According to EASA, this condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to loss of a swashplate clamp, resulting in loss of helicopter control. A detached clamp could damage the swashplate and pitch link or strike the tail rotor. EASA states that its AD is considered interim action and a further AD to implement a terminating action will follow. FAA's Determination These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of Germany and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with Germany, EASA, its technical representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in its AD. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant information and determined that an unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) BO105- 40A-107 for Model BO105 C-series, D-series and S-series helicopters; ASB BO105 LS-40A-12 for Model BO-105LS A-3 helicopters; ASB MBB-BK117- 40A-115 for Model MBB-BK 117A-1, MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters; and ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-007 for Model MBB-BK 117C-2 and MBB-BK 117C-2e helicopters. These ASBs are all Revision 4 and all dated May 23, 2016. We also [[Page 17511]] reviewed Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003, Revision 2, dated May 23, 2016, for Model MBB-BK117 D-2 and MBB-BK117 D-2m helicopters. This service information specifies removing the bellows and repetitively inspecting the swashplate. 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. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require a one-time inspection within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS) and repetitive inspections every 100 hours TIS and every 400 hours TIS, by following the instructions in the manufacturer's service bulletin. This proposed AD would also prohibit installing on any helicopter bellows P/N 105-10113.05, P/N 4619305044, and P/N 4638305043 and any gearbox that has these bellows installed. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires compliance within different time intervals for some actions than what this proposed AD would require. The EASA AD allows a non-cumulative tolerance of 10 percent that may be applied to the compliance times, and this proposed AD would not. The EASA AD allows replacing the bellows clamps with cable ties before removing the bellows, and this proposed AD would not. This proposed AD would apply to Model MBB-BK 117D-2 helicopters while the EASA AD does not. The EASA AD applies to Model BO-105D helicopters, while this proposed AD would not. Interim Action We consider this proposed AD to be an interim action. The design approval holder is currently developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional rulemaking. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 286 helicopters of U.S. Registry and that labor costs would average $85 per work hour. Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs: Removing and inspecting the swashplate assembly would require 3 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $255 per helicopter and $72,930 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. Repairing a scratched support tube would require 3 work- hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $255 per helicopter. Replacing a corroded or damaged clamp would require 2 work-hours. Parts would cost $8 for a cost of $178 per helicopter. Replacing corroded ball bearings would require 4 work- hours. Parts would cost $3,000 for a cost of $3,340 per helicopter. Removing foreign objects from the outer deflection ring would require 2 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $170 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 products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the 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 proposed 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. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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): Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA-2016-9395; Product Identifier 2016-SW-027-AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model BO- 105A, BO-105C, BO-105S, BO105LS A-3, MBB-BK 117A-1, MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, MBB-BK 117C-1, MBB-BK 117C-2, and MBB-BK 117D-2 helicopters, certificated in any category. Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: Helicopters with an MBB-BK 117C-2e designation are Model MBB-BK 117C-2 helicopters. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a loose bellows clamp. This condition can cause loss of the bellows, contact of the bellows with the main rotor blades, main rotor mast, and tail rotor, and subsequent loss of helicopter control. (c) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 19, 2018. (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 50 hours time-in-service (TIS): (i) Remove the swashplate bellows (bellows) part number (P/N) 105-10113.05, P/N 4638305043, P/N 4619305044, or B623M20X2240 from the swashplate. (ii) Inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.1.(h) through 3.B.1.(k) of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) [[Page 17512]] BO105-40A-107, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB BO105-40A-107); ASB BO105 LS 40A-12, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB BO105 LS 40A-12); ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115); or ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-007, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-007); or paragraph 3.B.1.5 through 3.B.1.8 of Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003, Revision 2, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003); whichever is applicable to your helicopter. If there is corrosion on a ball bearing, you are not required to contact Airbus Helicopters customer support; instead, before further flight, replace the ball bearing. (2) Within 100 hours TIS after complying with the actions in paragraph (1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2 of ASB BO105-40A-107, ASB BO105 LS 40A-12, ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115, ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A- 007, or ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003, except you are not required to contact Airbus Helicopters customer support. If there is corrosion on a ball bearing, before further flight, replace the ball bearing. (3) Within 400 hours TIS after complying with the actions in paragraph (1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 400 hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB BO105-40A-107, ASB BO105 LS 40A-12, ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115, ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A- 007, or ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003. (4) Do not install a bellows P/N 105-10113.05, P/N 4619305044, or P/N 4638305043 or a gearbox with a bellows P/N 105-10113.05, P/N 4619305044, or P/N 4638305043 on any helicopter. (f) 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management 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. (g) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2016-0142, dated July 19, 2016. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor System. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 11, 2018. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-08097 Filed 4-19-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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In the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the before the closing date for comments.
caption, in the third column, correct the ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 We will consider comments filed after
first full paragraph to read: p.m., Monday through Friday, except the comment period has closed if it is
The Commission seeks comments on Federal holidays. possible to do so without incurring
the petition. The public may inspect the expense or delay. We may change this
Examining the AD Docket proposal in light of the comments we
petition on the Commission’s website at
http://sers.fec.gov/fosers/ You may examine the AD docket on receive.
rulemaking.htm?pid=2883684, or in the the internet at http://
Discussion
Commission’s Public Records Office, www.regulations.gov by searching for
1050 First Street NE, 12th Floor, and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– EASA, which is the aviation authority
Washington, DC 20463, Monday 9395; or in person at Docket Operations for Germany, has issued AD No. 2016–
through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 0142, dated July 19, 2016, to correct an
through Friday, except Federal holidays. unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters
On behalf of the Commission. Model MBB–BK 117A–1, MBB–BK
The AD docket contains this proposed
Dated: April 3, 2018. 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK
AD, the European Aviation Safety
Caroline C. Hunter, Agency (EASA) AD, the economic 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, MBB–BK
Chair, Federal Election Commission. evaluation, any comments received, and 117C–1, MBB–BK 117C–2, MBB–BK
[FR Doc. 2018–08264 Filed 4–19–18; 8:45 am] other information. The street address for 117C–2e, BO–105A, BO–105C, BO–
BILLING CODE 6715–01–P Docket Operations (telephone 800–647– 105D, BO105S, BO–105LS A–3
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. helicopters.
Comments will be available in the AD EASA advises of several reports of a
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION docket shortly after receipt. lower clamp found missing from the
For service information identified in bellows and damaging the swashplate
Federal Aviation Administration this proposed rule, contact Airbus bearing ring before becoming detached.
Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, EASA states an investigation showed
14 CFR Part 39 Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone that over-torqueing can damage the
(972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax clamp, which may have caused the
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9395; Product
Identifier 2016–SW–027–AD] (972) 641–3775; or at http:// clamp to become loose and detach.
www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. According to EASA, this condition, if
RIN 2120–AA64 not detected and corrected, could lead
You may review the referenced
service information at the FAA, Office to loss of a swashplate clamp, resulting
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus in loss of helicopter control. A detached
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room clamp could damage the swashplate and
Helicopters pitch link or strike the tail rotor. EASA
6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
AGENCY: Federal Aviation states that its AD is considered interim
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt
Administration (FAA), DOT. action and a further AD to implement a
Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer,
terminating action will follow.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft
(NPRM). Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 FAA’s Determination
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; These helicopters have been approved
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new telephone (817) 222–5110; email
airworthiness directive (AD) for various by the aviation authority of Germany
matthew.fuller@faa.gov. and are approved for operation in the
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: United States. Pursuant to our bilateral
(Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB–
BK117 and Model BO–105 helicopters. Comments Invited agreement with Germany, EASA, its
This proposed AD would require technical representative, has notified us
We invite you to participate in this of the unsafe condition described in its
removing the swashplate bellows rulemaking by submitting written
(bellows) and repetitively inspecting the AD. We are proposing this AD because
comments, data, or views. We also we evaluated all known relevant
swashplate assembly. This proposed AD invite comments relating to the
is prompted by reports of loose and information and determined that an
economic, environmental, energy, or unsafe condition is likely to exist or
missing clamps installed on bellows. federalism impacts that might result
The proposed actions are intended to develop on other products of the same
from adopting the proposals in this type design.
detect and prevent an unsafe condition document. The most helpful comments
on these products. reference a specific portion of the Related Service Information Under
DATES: We must receive comments on proposal, explain the reason for any 1 CFR Part 51
this proposed AD by June 19, 2018. recommended change, and include We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by supporting data. To ensure the docket Service Bulletin (ASB) BO105–40A–107
any of the following methods: does not contain duplicate comments, for Model BO105 C-series, D-series and
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to commenters should send only one copy S-series helicopters; ASB BO105 LS–
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the of written comments, or if comments are 40A–12 for Model BO–105LS A–3
online instructions for sending your filed electronically, commenters should helicopters; ASB MBB–BK117–40A–115
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
comments electronically. submit only one time. for Model MBB–BK 117A–1, MBB–BK
• Fax: 202–493–2251. We will file in the docket all 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S. comments that we receive, as well as a 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB–
Department of Transportation, Docket report summarizing each substantive BK 117C–1 helicopters; and ASB MBB–
Operations, M–30, West Building public contact with FAA personnel BK117 C–2–62A–007 for Model MBB–
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 concerning this proposed rulemaking. BK 117C–2 and MBB–BK 117C–2e
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC Before acting on this proposal, we will helicopters. These ASBs are all Revision
20590–0001. consider all comments we receive on or 4 and all dated May 23, 2016. We also
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 77 / Friday, April 20, 2018 / Proposed Rules 17511
reviewed Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB– • Repairing a scratched support tube We prepared an economic evaluation
BK117 D–2–62A–003, Revision 2, dated would require 3 work-hours. No parts of the estimated costs to comply with
May 23, 2016, for Model MBB–BK117 would be needed for a cost of $255 per this proposed AD and placed it in the
D–2 and MBB–BK117 D–2m helicopters. helicopter. AD docket.
This service information specifies • Replacing a corroded or damaged
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
removing the bellows and repetitively clamp would require 2 work-hours.
inspecting the swashplate. Parts would cost $8 for a cost of $178 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
This service information is reasonably per helicopter. safety, Incorporation by reference,
available because the interested parties • Replacing corroded ball bearings Safety.
have access to it through their normal would require 4 work-hours. Parts The Proposed Amendment
course of business or by the means would cost $3,000 for a cost of $3,340
identified in the ADDRESSES section. per helicopter. Accordingly, under the authority
• Removing foreign objects from the delegated to me by the Administrator,
Proposed AD Requirements the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
outer deflection ring would require 2
This proposed AD would require a work-hours. No parts would be needed 39 as follows:
one-time inspection within 50 hours for a cost of $170 per helicopter.
time-in-service (TIS) and repetitive PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
inspections every 100 hours TIS and Authority for This Rulemaking DIRECTIVES
every 400 hours TIS, by following the Title 49 of the United States Code
instructions in the manufacturer’s ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue continues to read as follows:
service bulletin. This proposed AD rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
would also prohibit installing on any section 106, describes the authority of Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
helicopter bellows P/N 105–10113.05, the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: § 39.13 [Amended]
P/N 4619305044, and P/N 4638305043 Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
and any gearbox that has these bellows ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
detail the scope of the Agency’s the following new airworthiness
installed. authority. directive (AD):
Differences Between This Proposed AD We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH:
and the EASA AD Docket No. FAA–2016–9395; Product
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
The EASA AD requires compliance Identifier 2016–SW–027–AD.
General requirements.’’ Under that
within different time intervals for some (a) Applicability
section, Congress charges the FAA with
actions than what this proposed AD
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
would require. The EASA AD allows a
air commerce by prescribing regulations Deutschland GmbH Model BO–105A, BO–
non-cumulative tolerance of 10 percent 105C, BO–105S, BO105LS A–3, MBB–BK
for practices, methods, and procedures
that may be applied to the compliance 117A–1, MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–
the Administrator finds necessary for
times, and this proposed AD would not. 4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, MBB–
safety in air commerce. This regulation
The EASA AD allows replacing the BK 117C–1, MBB–BK 117C–2, and MBB–BK
is within the scope of that authority
bellows clamps with cable ties before 117D–2 helicopters, certificated in any
because it addresses an unsafe condition category.
removing the bellows, and this
that is likely to exist or develop on
proposed AD would not. This proposed Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD:
products identified in this rulemaking Helicopters with an MBB–BK 117C–2e
AD would apply to Model MBB–BK
action. designation are Model MBB–BK 117C–2
117D–2 helicopters while the EASA AD
does not. The EASA AD applies to Regulatory Findings helicopters.
Model BO–105D helicopters, while this We determined that this proposed AD (b) Unsafe Condition
proposed AD would not. would not have federalism implications This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
Interim Action under Executive Order 13132. This loose bellows clamp. This condition can
proposed AD would not have a cause loss of the bellows, contact of the
We consider this proposed AD to be bellows with the main rotor blades, main
an interim action. The design approval substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national rotor mast, and tail rotor, and subsequent loss
holder is currently developing a of helicopter control.
modification that will address the Government and the States, or on the
unsafe condition identified in this AD. distribution of power and (c) Comments Due Date
Once this modification is developed, responsibilities among the various We must receive comments by June 19,
approved, and available, we might levels of government. 2018.
consider additional rulemaking. For the reasons discussed, I certify (d) Compliance
this proposed regulation:
Costs of Compliance You are responsible for performing each
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action required by this AD within the
We estimate that this proposed AD action’’ under Executive Order 12866; specified compliance time unless it has
would affect 286 helicopters of U.S. 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the already been accomplished prior to that time.
Registry and that labor costs would DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); (e) Required Actions
average $85 per work hour. Based on
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
these estimates, we expect the following 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS):
costs: Alaska to the extent that it justifies (i) Remove the swashplate bellows
• Removing and inspecting the making a regulatory distinction; and (bellows) part number (P/N) 105–10113.05,
P/N 4638305043, P/N 4619305044, or
swashplate assembly would require 3 4. Will not have a significant B623M20X2240 from the swashplate.
work-hours. No parts would be needed economic impact, positive or negative, (ii) Inspect the swashplate by following the
for a cost of $255 per helicopter and on a substantial number of small entities Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
$72,930 for the U.S. fleet per inspection under the criteria of the Regulatory 3.B.1.(h) through 3.B.1.(k) of Airbus
cycle. Flexibility Act. Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
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BO105–40A–107, Revision 4, dated May 23, Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 11, Administration, 800 Independence
2016 (ASB BO105–40A–107); ASB BO105 LS 2018. Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591;
40A–12, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 Lance T. Gant, telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is
(ASB BO105 LS 40A–12); ASB MBB–BK117– Director, Compliance & Airworthiness also available for inspection at the
40A–115, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 Division, Aircraft Certification Service. National Archives and Records
(ASB MBB–BK117–40A–115); or ASB MBB–
BK117 C–2–62A–007, Revision 4, dated May [FR Doc. 2018–08097 Filed 4–19–18; 8:45 am] Administration (NARA). For
23, 2016 (ASB MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–007); BILLING CODE 4910–13–P information on the availability of FAA
or paragraph 3.B.1.5 through 3.B.1.8 of Order 7400.11B at NARA, call (202)
Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB–BK117 D–2– 741–6030, or go to http://
62A–003, Revision 2, dated May 23, 2016 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
(ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–003); ibr-locations.html.
whichever is applicable to your helicopter. If Federal Aviation Administration FAA Order 7400.11, Airspace
there is corrosion on a ball bearing, you are Designations and Reporting Points, is
not required to contact Airbus Helicopters 14 CFR Part 71 published yearly and effective on
customer support; instead, before further
flight, replace the ball bearing. [Docket No. FAA–2018–0290; Airspace September 15.
(2) Within 100 hours TIS after complying Docket No. 18–AGL–9] FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
with the actions in paragraph (1) of this AD, RIN 2120–AA66 Jeffrey Claypool, Federal Aviation
and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 Administration, Operations Support
hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by Proposed Amendment of Class E Group, Central Service Center, 10101
following the Accomplishment Instructions, Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX
Airspace; New Castle, IN
paragraph 3.B.2 of ASB BO105–40A–107,
76177; telephone (817) 222–5711.
ASB BO105 LS 40A–12, ASB MBB–BK117– AGENCY: Federal Aviation
40A–115, ASB MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–007, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Administration (FAA), DOT.
or ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–003, except
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking Authority for This Rulemaking
you are not required to contact Airbus
Helicopters customer support. If there is (NPRM). The FAA’s authority to issue rules
corrosion on a ball bearing, before further regarding aviation safety is found in
flight, replace the ball bearing. SUMMARY: This action proposes to
amend the Class E airspace extending Title 49 of the United States Code.
(3) Within 400 hours TIS after complying Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the
with the actions in paragraph (1) of this AD, upward from 700 feet above the surface
at New Castle-Henry County Municipal authority of the FAA Administrator.
and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 400
hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by Airport, New Castle, IN. The FAA is Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
following the Accomplishment Instructions, proposing this action as a result of an describes in more detail the scope of the
paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB BO105–40A–107, airspace review caused by the agency’s authority. This rulemaking is
ASB BO105 LS 40A–12, ASB MBB–BK117– decommissioning of the Richmond VHF promulgated under the authority
40A–115, ASB MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–007,
omnidirectional range (VOR) navigation described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
or ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–003. Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
(4) Do not install a bellows P/N 105– aid as part of the VOR Minimum
Operational Network (MON) Program. section, the FAA is charged with
10113.05, P/N 4619305044, or P/N prescribing regulations to assign the use
4638305043 or a gearbox with a bellows The geographic coordinates of the
airport would also be updated to of airspace necessary to ensure the
P/N 105–10113.05, P/N 4619305044, or P/N
4638305043 on any helicopter. coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
database. airspace. This regulation is within the
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance scope of that authority as it would
(AMOCs) DATES: Comments must be received on amend Class E airspace extending
(1) The Manager, Safety Management or before June 4, 2018. upward from 700 feet above the surface
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, ADDRESSES: Send comments on this at New Castle-Henry County Municipal
may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to the U.S. Department of Airport, New Castle, IN, to support
proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Transportation, Docket Operations, instrument flight rule operations at this
Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section,
West Building Ground Floor, Room airport.
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202) Comments Invited
telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASW-
FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. 366–9826, or (800) 647–5527. You must Interested parties are invited to
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2018– participate in this proposed rulemaking
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 0290; Airspace Docket No. 18–AGL–9, by submitting such written data, views,
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that at the beginning of your comments. You or arguments, as they may desire.
you notify your principal inspector, or may also submit comments through the Comments that provide the factual basis
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of internet at http://www.regulations.gov. supporting the views and suggestions
the local flight standards district office or
You may review the public docket presented are particularly helpful in
certificate holding district office before
operating any aircraft complying with this containing the proposal, any comments developing reasoned regulatory
AD through an AMOC. received, and any final disposition in decisions on the proposal. Comments
person in the Dockets Office between are specifically invited on the overall
(g) Additional Information 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday regulatory, aeronautical, economic,
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS
The subject of this AD is addressed in through Friday, except Federal holidays. environmental, and energy-related
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD FAA Order 7400.11B, Airspace aspects of the proposal.
No. 2016–0142, dated July 19, 2016. You may Designations and Reporting Points, and Communications should identify both
view the EASA AD on the internet at http://
subsequent amendments can be viewed docket numbers and be submitted in
www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket.
online at http://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ triplicate to the address listed above.
(h) Subject publications/. For further information, Commenters wishing the FAA to
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) you can contact the Airspace Policy acknowledge receipt of their comments
Code: 6200, Main Rotor System. Group, Federal Aviation on this notice must submit with those
VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 Apr 19, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\20APP1.SGM 20APP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/83_FR_17587/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2018-04-20 00:02:39
Document Modified: 2018-04-20 00:02:39
| 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 | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 19, 2018. | |
| Contact | Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 17510 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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