83 FR 46426 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH)
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 178 (September 13, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 178 (September 13, 2018)
| Page Range | 46426-46428 | |
| FR Document | 2018-19737 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 178 (Thursday, September 13, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 46426-46428] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-19737] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2017-1126; Product Identifier 2017-SW-125-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-26-03 for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model MBB-BK 117 A-1, MBB-BK 117 A-3, MBB-BK 117 A-4, MBB-BK 117 B-1, MBB-BK 117 B-2, and MBB-BK 117 C-1 helicopters. AD 97-26-03 requires visual inspections for cracks in the ribbed area of the main rotor (M/R) mast flange (flange). Since we issued AD 97-26-03, we have determined that a certain reinforced M/R mast is not affected by the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 97-26-03 and would remove a certain M/R mast from the applicability. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 13, 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-2017- 1126; 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.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You may review this 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 We issued AD 97-26-03, Amendment 39-10246 (62 FR 65750, December 16, 1997) (AD 97-26-03) for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (now Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH) Model MBB-BK 117 A-1, MBB-BK 117 A-3, MBB-BK 117 A-4, MBB-BK 117 B-1, MBB-BK 117 B-2, and MBB-BK 117 C-1 helicopters. AD 97-26-03 requires visual inspections for cracks in the ribbed area of the M/R flange and replacing the M/R mast if a crack is found. AD 97-26-03 was prompted by AD 97-276, effective September 25, 1997, issued by Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA), which is the airworthiness authority for Germany, to correct an unsafe condition for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model MBB-BK 117 A-1, MBB-BK 117 A-3, MBB-BK 117 A-4, MBB-BK 117 B-1, MBB-BK 117 B-2, and MBB-BK 117 C-1 helicopters. The LBA AD required immediate and repetitive inspections for a crack in the flange area after an M/R mast was found to have cracks ``of critical magnitude.'' When LBA AD 97-276 was issued, the cause of the cracks was under investigation. The actions of AD 97-26-03 are intended to detect cracks in the flange, which could result in failure of the flange and subsequent loss of helicopter control. Actions Since AD 97-26-03 Was Issued Since we issued AD 97-26-03, EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued EASA AD No. 2017-0193, dated September 29, 2017, to supersede the LBA AD. EASA advises that reinforced M/R mast part number (P/N) 4639 305 095, which is part of M/ R mast assembly P/N 4639 205 016, is not affected by the unsafe condition. The EASA AD retains the repetitive inspection requirements but only for helicopters with M/R mast P/N 4639 305 002. Also, since we issued AD 97-26-03, Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Helicopters changed its name to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH. This proposed AD reflects that change and updates the contact information to obtain service documentation. Additionally, the FAA's Aircraft Certification Service has changed its [[Page 46427]] organizational structure. The new structure replaces product directorates with functional divisions. We have revised some of the office titles and nomenclature throughout this proposed AD to reflect the new organizational changes. Additional information about the new structure can be found in the Notice published on July 25, 2017 (82 FR 34564). 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 No. ASB MBB- BK117-10-114, Revision 1, dated July 28, 2017. This service information specifies visually inspecting the area of the holes on the underside of the flange for cracks, especially in the ribbed area between the holes, and if cracks are found, contacting Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH before further flight for advice on how to proceed. This service information applies to helicopters with M/R mast assembly P/N 4639205011. 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 also reviewed Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB- BK117-10-114, dated August 27, 1997, which specifies visually inspecting the area of the holes on the underside of the flange for cracks, especially in the ribbed area between the holes, and if cracks are found, contacting Eurocopter Helicopter Deutschland GmbH before further flight for advice on how to proceed. This service information applies to helicopters with M/R mast assembly P/N 4639205011 or 4639205016. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require before further flight and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-in-service, visually inspecting the flange in the ribbed area for a crack using a 5-power or higher magnifying glass. If a crack exists, this proposed AD would require removing the M/R mast before further flight and replacing it with an airworthy M/R mast. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires contacting Airbus Helicopters if a crack is found on the flange for applicable instructions, whereas this proposed AD would require replacing the M/R mast with an airworthy M/R mast before further flight. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 62 helicopters of U.S. Registry and that labor costs average $85 per work-hour. Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs: Visually inspecting the flange for a crack would require .25 work-hour and no parts for a cost of about $21 per helicopter and $1,302 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. Replacing the M/R mast would require 10 work-hours and parts would cost $50,000 for a cost of $50,850 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-26-03, Amendment 39-10246 (62 FR 65750, December 16, 1997), and adding the following new AD: Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH): Docket No. FAA-2017-1126; Product Identifier 2017-SW-125-AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH) Model MBB-BK 117 A-1, MBB- BK 117 A-3, MBB-BK 117 A-4, MBB-BK 117 B-1, MBB-BK 117 B-2, and MBB- BK 117 C-1 helicopters, certificated any category, with a main rotor (M/R) mast assembly part number (P/N) 4639 205 011 installed. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a M/R mast flange. This condition could result in failure of the mast flange and subsequent loss of helicopter control. (c) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 97-26-03, Amendment 39-10246 (62 FR 65750, December 16, 1997). [[Page 46428]] (d) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by November 13, 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) Before further flight, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-in-service, visually inspect the flange in the ribbed area for cracks using a 5-power or higher magnifying glass in accordance with paragraphs 2.A.1 and 2.A.2 of the Accomplishment Instructions in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB- MBB-BK 117-10-114, Revision 1, dated July 28, 2017. (2) If a crack is found as a result of the inspections specified in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, remove the cracked M/R mast and replace it with an airworthy M/R mast. (g) Credit for Previous Actions Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in accordance with the procedures specified in AD 97-26-03, dated December 16, 1997, are acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this AD. (h) Special Flight Permit A special flight permit will not be permitted. (i) 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. (j) Additional Information (1) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB-BK 117-10-114, dated August 27, 1997, 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.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. 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. 2017-0193, dated September 29, 2017. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. (k) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6300, Main Rotor Drive System. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 29, 2018. Scott A. Horn, Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-19737 Filed 9-12-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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may view the EASA AD on the internet at New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC concerning this proposed rulemaking.
http://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. 20590–0001. Before acting on this proposal, we will
(h) Subject • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the consider all comments we receive on or
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 before the closing date for comments.
Code: 5220, Emergency Exits p.m., Monday through Friday, except We will consider comments filed after
Federal holidays. the comment period has closed if it is
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 11, possible to do so without incurring
2018. Examining the AD Docket expense or delay. We may change this
Scott A. Horn, You may examine the AD docket on proposal in light of the comments we
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, the internet at http:// receive.
Compliance & Airworthiness Division, www.regulations.gov by searching for
Aircraft Certification Service. Discussion
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
[FR Doc. 2018–19736 Filed 9–12–18; 8:45 am] 1126; or in person at Docket Operations We issued AD 97–26–03, Amendment
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 39–10246 (62 FR 65750, December 16,
through Friday, except Federal holidays. 1997) (AD 97–26–03) for Eurocopter
The AD docket contains this proposed Deutschland GmbH (now Airbus
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AD, the European Aviation Safety Helicopters Deutschland GmbH) Model
Agency (EASA) AD, the economic MBB–BK 117 A–1, MBB–BK 117 A–3,
Federal Aviation Administration MBB–BK 117 A–4, MBB–BK 117 B–1,
evaluation, any comments received and
other information. The street address for MBB–BK 117 B–2, and MBB–BK 117 C–
14 CFR Part 39 1 helicopters. AD 97–26–03 requires
Docket Operations (telephone 800–647–
[Docket No. FAA–2017–1126; Product 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. visual inspections for cracks in the
Identifier 2017–SW–125–AD] Comments will be available in the AD ribbed area of the M/R flange and
docket shortly after receipt. replacing the M/R mast if a crack is
RIN 2120–AA64 found. AD 97–26–03 was prompted by
For service information identified in
this proposed rule, contact Airbus AD 97–276, effective September 25,
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, 1997, issued by Luftfahrt-Bundesamt
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (LBA), which is the airworthiness
(Previously Eurocopter Deutschland
(972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax authority for Germany, to correct an
GmbH)
(972) 641–3775; or at http:// unsafe condition for Eurocopter
AGENCY: Federal Aviation www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/ Deutschland GmbH Model MBB–BK 117
Administration (FAA), DOT. en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You A–1, MBB–BK 117 A–3, MBB–BK 117
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking may review this referenced service A–4, MBB–BK 117 B–1, MBB–BK 117
(NPRM). information at the FAA, Office of the B–2, and MBB–BK 117 C–1 helicopters.
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, The LBA AD required immediate and
SUMMARY: We propose to supersede 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, repetitive inspections for a crack in the
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97–26–03 Fort Worth, TX 76177. flange area after an M/R mast was found
for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH to have cracks ‘‘of critical magnitude.’’
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt
Model MBB–BK 117 A–1, MBB–BK 117 When LBA AD 97–276 was issued, the
Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer,
A–3, MBB–BK 117 A–4, MBB–BK 117 cause of the cracks was under
Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft
B–1, MBB–BK 117 B–2, and MBB–BK investigation. The actions of AD 97–26–
Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
117 C–1 helicopters. AD 97–26–03 03 are intended to detect cracks in the
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
requires visual inspections for cracks in flange, which could result in failure of
telephone (817) 222–5110; email
the ribbed area of the main rotor (M/R) the flange and subsequent loss of
matthew.fuller@faa.gov.
mast flange (flange). Since we issued AD helicopter control.
97–26–03, we have determined that a SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Actions Since AD 97–26–03 Was Issued
certain reinforced M/R mast is not Comments Invited
affected by the unsafe condition. This Since we issued AD 97–26–03, EASA,
proposed AD would retain the We invite you to participate in this which is the Technical Agent for the
requirements of AD 97–26–03 and rulemaking by submitting written Member States of the European Union,
would remove a certain M/R mast from comments, data, or views. We also issued EASA AD No. 2017–0193, dated
the applicability. The actions of this invite comments relating to the September 29, 2017, to supersede the
proposed AD are intended to address an economic, environmental, energy, or LBA AD. EASA advises that reinforced
unsafe condition on these products. federalism impacts that might result M/R mast part number (P/N) 4639 305
from adopting the proposals in this 095, which is part of M/R mast assembly
DATES: We must receive comments on
document. The most helpful comments P/N 4639 205 016, is not affected by the
this proposed AD by November 13, reference a specific portion of the
2018. unsafe condition. The EASA AD retains
proposal, explain the reason for any the repetitive inspection requirements
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by recommended change, and include but only for helicopters with M/R mast
any of the following methods: supporting data. To ensure the docket P/N 4639 305 002.
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to does not contain duplicate comments, Also, since we issued AD 97–26–03,
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the commenters should send only one copy Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH
online instructions for sending your of written comments, or if comments are Helicopters changed its name to Airbus
comments electronically. filed electronically, commenters should Helicopters Deutschland GmbH. This
• Fax: 202–493–2251. submit only one time. proposed AD reflects that change and
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S. We will file in the docket all updates the contact information to
Department of Transportation, Docket comments that we receive, as well as a obtain service documentation.
Operations, M–30, West Building report summarizing each substantive Additionally, the FAA’s Aircraft
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 public contact with FAA personnel Certification Service has changed its
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2018 / Proposed Rules 46427
organizational structure. The new power or higher magnifying glass. If a For the reasons discussed, I certify
structure replaces product directorates crack exists, this proposed AD would this proposed regulation:
with functional divisions. We have require removing the M/R mast before 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
revised some of the office titles and further flight and replacing it with an action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
nomenclature throughout this proposed airworthy M/R mast. 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
AD to reflect the new organizational DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
Differences Between This Proposed AD
changes. Additional information about (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
and the EASA AD
the new structure can be found in the 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Notice published on July 25, 2017 (82 The EASA AD requires contacting Alaska to the extent that it justifies
FR 34564). Airbus Helicopters if a crack is found on making a regulatory distinction; and
the flange for applicable instructions,
FAA’s Determination 4. Will not have a significant
whereas this proposed AD would
These helicopters have been approved require replacing the M/R mast with an economic impact, positive or negative,
by the aviation authority of Germany airworthy M/R mast before further on a substantial number of small entities
and are approved for operation in the flight. under the criteria of the Regulatory
United States. Pursuant to our bilateral Flexibility Act.
agreement with Germany, EASA, its Costs of Compliance We prepared an economic evaluation
technical representative, has notified us We estimate that this proposed AD of the estimated costs to comply with
of the unsafe condition described in its would affect 62 helicopters of U.S. this proposed AD and placed it in the
AD. We are proposing this AD because Registry and that labor costs average $85 AD docket.
we evaluated all known relevant per work-hour. Based on these List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
information and determined that an estimates, we expect the following costs:
unsafe condition is likely to exist or • Visually inspecting the flange for a Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
develop on other products of the same crack would require .25 work-hour and safety, Incorporation by reference,
type design. no parts for a cost of about $21 per Safety.
Related Service Information Under 1 helicopter and $1,302 for the U.S. fleet The Proposed Amendment
CFR Part 51 per inspection cycle.
• Replacing the M/R mast would Accordingly, under the authority
We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert delegated to me by the Administrator,
require 10 work-hours and parts would
Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB–BK117– the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
cost $50,000 for a cost of $50,850 per
10–114, Revision 1, dated July 28, 2017. 39 as follows:
helicopter.
This service information specifies
visually inspecting the area of the holes Authority for This Rulemaking PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
on the underside of the flange for DIRECTIVES
Title 49 of the United States Code
cracks, especially in the ribbed area
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
between the holes, and if cracks are
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, continues to read as follows:
found, contacting Airbus Helicopters
section 106, describes the authority of
Deutschland GmbH before further flight Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
for advice on how to proceed. This
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more § 39.13 [Amended]
service information applies to
detail the scope of the Agency’s
helicopters with M/R mast assembly P/ ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
authority.
N 4639205011. removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
This service information is reasonably We are issuing this rulemaking under
97–26–03, Amendment 39–10246 (62
available because the interested parties the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
FR 65750, December 16, 1997), and
have access to it through their normal Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
adding the following new AD:
course of business or by the means General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
identified in the ADDRESSES section. (Previously Eurocopter Deutschland
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
Other Related Service Information GmbH): Docket No. FAA–2017–1126;
air commerce by prescribing regulations
Product Identifier 2017–SW–125–AD.
We also reviewed Eurocopter Alert for practices, methods, and procedures
Service Bulletin No. ASB MBB–BK117– the Administrator finds necessary for (a) Applicability
10–114, dated August 27, 1997, which safety in air commerce. This regulation This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
specifies visually inspecting the area of is within the scope of that authority Deutschland GmbH (previously Eurocopter
the holes on the underside of the flange because it addresses an unsafe condition Deutschland GmbH) Model MBB–BK 117 A–
for cracks, especially in the ribbed area that is likely to exist or develop on 1, MBB–BK 117 A–3, MBB–BK 117 A–4,
products identified in this rulemaking MBB–BK 117 B–1, MBB–BK 117 B–2, and
between the holes, and if cracks are MBB–BK 117 C–1 helicopters, certificated
found, contacting Eurocopter Helicopter action.
any category, with a main rotor (M/R) mast
Deutschland GmbH before further flight Regulatory Findings assembly part number (P/N) 4639 205 011
for advice on how to proceed. This installed.
service information applies to We determined that this proposed AD
would not have federalism implications (b) Unsafe Condition
helicopters with M/R mast assembly P/
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
N 4639205011 or 4639205016. under Executive Order 13132. This This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
proposed AD would not have a crack in a M/R mast flange. This condition
Proposed AD Requirements substantial direct effect on the States, on could result in failure of the mast flange and
This proposed AD would require the relationship between the national subsequent loss of helicopter control.
before further flight and thereafter at Government and the States, or on the (c) Affected ADs
intervals not to exceed 100 hours time- distribution of power and This AD replaces AD 97–26–03,
in-service, visually inspecting the flange responsibilities among the various Amendment 39–10246 (62 FR 65750,
in the ribbed area for a crack using a 5- levels of government. December 16, 1997).
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(d) Comments Due Date (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
We must receive comments by November European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD methods:
13, 2018. No. 2017–0193, dated September 29, 2017. • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
You may view the EASA AD on the internet
(e) Compliance http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
at http://www.regulations.gov in the AD
Docket. instructions for submitting comments.
You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
specified compliance time unless it has
(k) Subject • Mail: U.S. Department of
already been accomplished prior to that time. Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
Code: 6300, Main Rotor Drive System. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
(f) Required Actions
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 29, W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
(1) Before further flight, and thereafter at 2018. Washington, DC 20590.
intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-in- • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
service, visually inspect the flange in the Scott A. Horn,
ribbed area for cracks using a 5-power or Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, address above between 9 a.m. and 5
higher magnifying glass in accordance with Compliance & Airworthiness Division, p.m., Monday through Friday, except
paragraphs 2.A.1 and 2.A.2 of the Aircraft Certification Service. Federal holidays.
Accomplishment Instructions in Airbus [FR Doc. 2018–19737 Filed 9–12–18; 8:45 am] For service information identified in
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB– BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
this NPRM, contact Bombardier, Inc.,
MBB–BK 117–10–114, Revision 1, dated July 400 Côte-Vertu Road West, Dorval,
28, 2017. Québec H4S 1Y9, Canada; Widebody
(2) If a crack is found as a result of the
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Customer Response Center North
inspections specified in paragraph (f)(1) of
this AD, remove the cracked M/R mast and America toll-free telephone 1–866–538–
replace it with an airworthy M/R mast. Federal Aviation Administration 1247 or direct-dial telephone 514–855–
5000; fax 514–855–7401; email ac.yul@
(g) Credit for Previous Actions 14 CFR Part 39 aero.bombardier.com; internet http://
Actions accomplished before the effective www.bombardier.com. You may view
date of this AD in accordance with the [Docket No. FAA–2018–0794; Product
Identifier 2017–NM–175–AD] this referenced service information at
procedures specified in AD 97–26–03, dated the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,
December 16, 1997, are acceptable for RIN 2120–AA64
compliance with the corresponding actions
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA.
specified in paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this For information on the availability of
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier,
AD. this material at the FAA, call 206–231–
Inc. Airplanes
3195.
(h) Special Flight Permit
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Examining the AD Docket
A special flight permit will not be Administration (FAA), DOT.
permitted. You may examine the AD docket on
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (NPRM). the internet at http://
(AMOCs) www.regulations.gov by searching for
(1) The Manager, Safety Management SUMMARY: We propose to supersede and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012–25– 0794; or in person at the Docket
may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your 02, which applies to certain Management Facility between 9 a.m.
proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Bombardier, Inc. Model CL–600–2B19 and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, (Regional Jet Series 100 & 440) except Federal holidays. The AD docket
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 airplanes. AD 2012–25–02 requires contains this NPRM, the regulatory
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
revising the airworthiness limitations evaluation, any comments received, and
telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASW-
FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. section (AWL) of the instructions for other information. The street address for
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 continued airworthiness (ICA) of the the Docket Operations office (telephone
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under maintenance requirements manual by 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that incorporating new procedures for section. Comments will be available in
you notify your principal inspector, or repetitive inspections for cracking of the the AD docket shortly after receipt.
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of rear pressure bulkhead (RPB). AD 2012– FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Aziz
the local flight standards district office or 25–02 also requires revising the
certificate holding district office before Ahmed, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
maintenance program to incorporate a and Mechanical Systems Section, FAA,
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC. revised task which requires an New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart
improved non-destructive inspection Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
(j) Additional Information procedure. Since we issued AD 2012– 11590; telephone 516–228–7329; fax
(1) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 25–02, additional in-service crack 516–794–5531.
Bulletin No. ASB MBB–BK 117–10–114, findings resulted in the development of
dated August 27, 1997, which is not SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
a structural modification to the RPB.
incorporated by reference, contains This proposed AD would mandate Comments Invited
additional information about the subject of
this AD. For service information identified in modification of the RPB and would add We invite you to send any written
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. repetitive inspections for cracking of the relevant data, views, or arguments about
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; RPB web, which would terminate this proposal. Send your comments to
telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; certain actions in this proposed AD. We an address listed under the ADDRESSES
fax (972) 641–3775; or at http:// are proposing this AD to address the section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/ unsafe condition on these products.
Technical-Support_73.html. You may review
2018–0794; Product Identifier 2017–
DATES: We must receive comments on NM–175–AD’’ at the beginning of your
a copy of the service information at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest this proposed AD by October 29, 2018. comments. We specifically invite
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N– ADDRESSES: You may send comments, comments on the overall regulatory,
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. using the procedures found in 14 CFR economic, environmental, and energy
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:19 Sep 12, 2018 Jkt 244001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\13SEP1.SGM 13SEP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/83_FR_46604/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2018-09-13 01:01:21
Document Modified: 2018-09-13 01:01:21
| 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 November 13, 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 46426 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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