83_FR_49983 83 FR 49791 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters

83 FR 49791 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 192 (October 3, 2018)

Page Range49791-49793
FR Document2018-21342

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 and MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. This AD requires altering and re- identifying the overhead panel shock mount assembly (shock mount). This AD was prompted by the manufacturer's stress recalculations. The actions of this AD are intended to correct an unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 192 (Wednesday, October 3, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 192 (Wednesday, October 3, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 49791-49793]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-21342]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0517; Product Identifier 2017-SW-098-AD; Amendment 
39-19443; AD 2018-20-09]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus 
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 
and MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. This AD requires altering and re-
identifying the overhead panel shock mount assembly (shock mount). This 
AD was prompted by the manufacturer's stress recalculations. The 
actions of this AD are intended to correct an unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: This AD is effective November 7, 2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of November 7, 
2018.

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.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You may review the referenced service information at 
the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available 
on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0517.

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-2018-
0517; 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 service information, the economic evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The street address for 
Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-5527) is 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: 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:

Discussion

    On June 7, 2018, at 83 FR 26387, the Federal Register published our 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Model 
MBB-BK 117 C-2 and Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters with an overhead 
panel shock mount assembly part number (P/N) B246M2035102 or P/N 
B246M2036101 installed. The NPRM proposed to require installing a 
retaining plate on the shock mount and re-identifying the shock mount 
by changing the last three digits of the P/N to -966. The NPRM also 
proposed prohibiting the installation of shock

[[Page 49792]]

mount P/N B246M2035102 and P/N B246M2036101 on any helicopter. The 
proposed requirements were intended to prevent failure of a shock 
mount, which could result in detachment of the overhead panel and 
injury to occupants during an emergency landing.
    The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2017-0026, dated February 14, 2017, 
issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of 
the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus 
Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2, MBB-BK117 C-2e, MBB-BK 117 D-2, and 
MBB-BK117 D-2m helicopters. EASA advises that a recent stress 
calculation identified that the shock mount may not withstand 
certification crash loads. EASA states that this condition, if not 
corrected, could lead to the overhead panel disconnecting during an 
emergency landing and injuring occupants. Accordingly, the EASA AD 
requires modifying and re-identifying the shock mounts.

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

    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 
the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all 
information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same 
type designs and that air safety and the public interest require 
adopting the AD requirements as proposed.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD applies to Model MBB-BK117 D-2m helicopters, whereas 
this AD does not since the Model MBB-BK117 D-2m is not FAA type-
certificated. This AD also does not include the Model MBB-BK117 C-2(e) 
in the applicability section because it is a marketing designation and 
not an FAA type-certificated model. However, this AD applies to those 
helicopters, as they are Model MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters. The EASA AD 
specifies particular helicopter serial numbers (S/Ns) that may not be 
required to complete some of the requirements of the AD since the 
specified S/Ns were manufactured with shock mounts not affected by the 
unsafe condition. This AD does not specify particular S/Ns.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus Helicopters has issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB-
BK117 C-2-24A-015 for Model MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters and ASB MBB-BK117 
D-2-24A-004 for Model MBB-BK117 D-2 helicopters, both Revision 0 and 
dated September 14, 2016. This service information contains procedures 
for altering the shock mounts by installing retaining plates and re-
identifying the shock mounts by changing the last three digits of the 
P/N to -966.
    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.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 144 helicopters of U.S. Registry. 
We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to 
comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour.
    Installing retaining plates and re-identifying the four shock 
mounts takes about 3 work-hours and parts cost about $184 for a total 
estimated cost of $439 per helicopter and $63,216 for the U.S. fleet.
    According to Airbus Helicopter's service information, some of the 
costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the 
cost impact on affected individuals. 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 detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on helicopters identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2018-20-09 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39-19443; 
Docket No. FAA-2018-0517; Product Identifier 2017-SW-098-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 and Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 
helicopters, certificated in any category, with an overhead panel 
shock mount assembly part number (P/N) B246M2035102 or P/N 
B246M2036101 installed.

    Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: Helicopters with an MBB-
BK117 C-2e designation are Model MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters.


[[Page 49793]]



(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as failure of an overhead 
panel shock mount assembly (shock mount). This condition could 
result in detachment of the overhead panel and injury to occupants 
during an emergency landing.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective November 7, 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 300 hours time-in-service:
    (i) Install a retaining plate on each shock mount by following 
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.B.2.1. through 
3.B.2.4, of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB-
BK117 C-2-24A-015, Revision 0, dated September 14, 2016 (ASB MBB-
BK117 C-2-24A-015), or ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-24A-004, Revision 0, dated 
September 14, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-24A-004), as applicable to 
your model helicopter.
    (ii) Re-identify shock mount P/N B246M2035102 as P/N 
B246M2035966 and shock mount P/N B246M2036101 as P/N B246M2036966 
using permanent ink. When the ink is dry, apply varnish over the P/
N.
    (iii) Re-install each shock mount.
    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a shock 
mount P/N B246M2035102 or P/N B246M2036101 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. 2017-0026, dated February 14, 2017. You may 
view the EASA AD on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov in 
Docket No. FAA-2018-0517.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2400, Electrical 
Power System.

(i) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB-BK117 C-
2-24A-015, Revision 0, dated September 14, 2016.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-24A-004, Revision 0, 
dated September 14, 2016.
    (3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in 
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand 
Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax 
(972) 641-3775; or at http://www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 24, 2018.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-21342 Filed 10-2-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 192 / Wednesday, October 3, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                     49791

                                             (h) No Alternative Actions or Intervals                 paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR             of certain documents listed in this AD
                                               After the maintenance or inspection                   part 51.                                              as of November 7, 2018.
                                             program has been revised as required by                    (2) You must use this service information
                                                                                                                                                           ADDRESSES: For service information
                                             paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative                as applicable to do the actions required by
                                                                                                     this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.          identified in this final rule, contact
                                             actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be
                                                                                                        (i) Chapter 5–40, Airworthiness                    Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum
                                             used unless the actions or intervals are
                                             approved as an alternative method of                    Limitations, DGT 113872, Revision 24, dated           Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
                                             compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the                July 2017, of the Dassault Falcon 50/50EX             telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–
                                             procedures specified in paragraph (j)(1) of             Maintenance Manual.                                   0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at http://
                                             this AD.                                                   (ii) Reserved.                                     www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/
                                                                                                        (3) For service information identified in
                                             (i) Terminating Actions for Other ADs                   this AD, contact Dassault Falcon Jet
                                                                                                                                                           en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You
                                                                                                     Corporation, Teterboro Airport, P.O. Box              may review the referenced service
                                                (1) Accomplishing the actions required by                                                                  information at the FAA, Office of the
                                             paragraph (g) of this AD terminates all                 2000, South Hackensack, NJ 07606;
                                             requirements of AD 2017–09–03.                          telephone 201–440–6700; internet http://              Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
                                                (2) Accomplishing the actions required by            www.dassaultfalcon.com.                               10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321,
                                                                                                        (4) You may view this service information          Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also
                                             paragraph (g) of this AD terminates all
                                                                                                     at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,               available on the internet at http://
                                             requirements of AD 2010–26–05 and AD
                                                                                                     2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
                                             2012–02–18 for the Dassault Aviation Model                                                                    www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                                                                     information on the availability of this
                                             MYSTERE-FALCON 50 airplanes specified in
                                                                                                     material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.               and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
                                             those ADs.                                                 (5) You may view this service information          0517.
                                             (j) Other FAA AD Provisions                             that is incorporated by reference at the
                                                                                                                                                           Examining the AD Docket
                                                                                                     National Archives and Records
                                                The following provisions also apply to this
                                                                                                     Administration (NARA). For information on                You may examine the AD docket on
                                             AD:
                                                                                                     the availability of this material at NARA, call       the internet at http://
                                                (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance                202–741–6030, or go to: http://
                                             (AMOCs): The Manager, International                                                                           www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                                                                     www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
                                             Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,               locations.html.
                                             has the authority to approve AMOCs for this                                                                   0517; or in person at Docket Operations
                                             AD, if requested using the procedures found               Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on                between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
                                             in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR              September 21, 2018.                                   through Friday, except Federal holidays.
                                             39.19, send your request to your principal              John P. Piccola,                                      The AD docket contains this AD, the
                                             inspector or local Flight Standards District            Acting Director, System Oversight Division,           European Aviation Safety Agency
                                             Office, as appropriate. If sending information          Aircraft Certification Service.                       (EASA) AD, any incorporated-by-
                                             directly to the International Section, send it          [FR Doc. 2018–21343 Filed 10–2–18; 8:45 am]
                                             to the attention of the person identified in                                                                  reference service information, the
                                             paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may            BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                economic evaluation, any comments
                                             be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-                                                                                received, and other information. The
                                             REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any                                                                            street address for Docket Operations
                                             approved AMOC, notify your appropriate                  DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                          (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S.
                                             principal inspector, or lacking a principal                                                                   Department of Transportation, Docket
                                             inspector, the manager of the local flight              Federal Aviation Administration
                                                                                                                                                           Operations, M–30, West Building
                                             standards district office/certificate holding                                                                 Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
                                             district office.                                        14 CFR Part 39
                                                                                                                                                           New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
                                                (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
                                             requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
                                                                                                     [Docket No. FAA–2018–0517; Product                    20590.
                                                                                                     Identifier 2017–SW–098–AD; Amendment                  FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt
                                             actions from a manufacturer, the action must
                                                                                                     39–19443; AD 2018–20–09]
                                             be accomplished using a method approved                                                                       Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer,
                                             by the Manager, International Section,                  RIN 2120–AA64                                         Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft
                                             Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the                                                                       Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
                                             European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or              Airworthiness Directives; Airbus                      Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
                                             Dassault Aviation’s EASA Design                         Helicopters Deutschland GmbH                          telephone (817) 222–5110; email
                                             Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by             Helicopters
                                             the DOA, the approval must include the
                                                                                                                                                           matthew.fuller@faa.gov.
                                             DOA-authorized signature.                               AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                             SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                                                                     Administration (FAA), DOT.                            Discussion
                                             (k) Related Information
                                                                                                     ACTION: Final rule.
                                               (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing                                                                             On June 7, 2018, at 83 FR 26387, the
                                             Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA                   SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                      Federal Register published our notice of
                                             Airworthiness Directive 2018–0026, dated                airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus               proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which
                                             January 30, 2018, for related information.              Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus                  proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by
                                             This MCAI may be found in the AD docket
                                             on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov
                                                                                                     Helicopters) Model MBB–BK 117 C–2                     adding an AD that would apply to
                                             by searching for and locating Docket No.                and MBB–BK 117 D–2 helicopters. This                  Airbus Helicopters Model MBB–BK 117
                                             FAA–2018–0394.                                          AD requires altering and re-identifying               C–2 and Model MBB–BK 117 D–2
                                               (2) For more information about this AD,               the overhead panel shock mount                        helicopters with an overhead panel
                                             contact Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,              assembly (shock mount). This AD was                   shock mount assembly part number
                                             International Section, Transport Standards              prompted by the manufacturer’s stress                 (P/N) B246M2035102 or P/N
                                             Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des                  recalculations. The actions of this AD                B246M2036101 installed. The NPRM
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES




                                             Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–                are intended to correct an unsafe                     proposed to require installing a
                                             231–3226.                                               condition on these products.                          retaining plate on the shock mount and
                                             (l) Material Incorporated by Reference                  DATES: This AD is effective November 7,               re-identifying the shock mount by
                                                (1) The Director of the Federal Register             2018.                                                 changing the last three digits of the P/
                                             approved the incorporation by reference                   The Director of the Federal Register                N to –966. The NPRM also proposed
                                             (IBR) of the service information listed in this         approved the incorporation by reference               prohibiting the installation of shock


                                        VerDate Sep<11>2014   16:40 Oct 02, 2018   Jkt 247001   PO 00000   Frm 00023   Fmt 4700   Sfmt 4700   E:\FR\FM\03OCR1.SGM   03OCR1


                                             49792            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 192 / Wednesday, October 3, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                             mount P/N B246M2035102 and P/N                          shock mounts not affected by the unsafe               helicopters identified in this rulemaking
                                             B246M2036101 on any helicopter. The                     condition. This AD does not specify                   action.
                                             proposed requirements were intended to                  particular S/Ns.
                                                                                                                                                           Regulatory Findings
                                             prevent failure of a shock mount, which
                                                                                                     Related Service Information Under 1                     This AD will not have federalism
                                             could result in detachment of the
                                                                                                     CFR Part 51                                           implications under Executive Order
                                             overhead panel and injury to occupants
                                             during an emergency landing.                               Airbus Helicopters has issued Alert                13132. This AD will not have a
                                                The NPRM was prompted by AD No.                      Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB–BK117 C–                   substantial direct effect on the States, on
                                             2017–0026, dated February 14, 2017,                     2–24A–015 for Model MBB–BK117 C–2                     the relationship between the national
                                             issued by EASA, which is the Technical                  helicopters and ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–                    government and the States, or on the
                                             Agent for the Member States of the                      24A–004 for Model MBB–BK117 D–2                       distribution of power and
                                             European Union, to correct an unsafe                    helicopters, both Revision 0 and dated                responsibilities among the various
                                             condition for Airbus Helicopters Model                  September 14, 2016. This service                      levels of government.
                                             MBB–BK 117 C–2, MBB–BK117 C–2e,                         information contains procedures for                     For the reasons discussed above, I
                                             MBB–BK 117 D–2, and MBB–BK117 D–                        altering the shock mounts by installing               certify that this AD:
                                             2m helicopters. EASA advises that a                     retaining plates and re-identifying the                 (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                             recent stress calculation identified that               shock mounts by changing the last three               action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                             the shock mount may not withstand                       digits of the P/N to –966.                              (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
                                             certification crash loads. EASA states                     This service information is reasonably             DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                             that this condition, if not corrected,                  available because the interested parties              (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
                                             could lead to the overhead panel                        have access to it through their normal                  (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
                                             disconnecting during an emergency                       course of business or by the means                    in Alaska to the extent that it justifies
                                             landing and injuring occupants.                         identified in the ADDRESSES section.                  making a regulatory distinction; and
                                             Accordingly, the EASA AD requires                                                                               (4) Will not have a significant
                                             modifying and re-identifying the shock                  Costs of Compliance                                   economic impact, positive or negative,
                                             mounts.                                                    We estimate that this AD affects 144               on a substantial number of small entities
                                                                                                     helicopters of U.S. Registry. We estimate             under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                             Comments                                                                                                      Flexibility Act.
                                                                                                     that operators may incur the following
                                               We gave the public the opportunity to                 costs in order to comply with this AD.                  We prepared an economic evaluation
                                             participate in developing this AD, but                  Labor costs are estimated at $85 per                  of the estimated costs to comply with
                                             we did not receive any comments on the                  work-hour.                                            this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
                                             NPRM.
                                                                                                        Installing retaining plates and re-                List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                             FAA’s Determination                                     identifying the four shock mounts takes
                                                                                                                                                             Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                               These helicopters have been approved                  about 3 work-hours and parts cost about
                                                                                                                                                           safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                             by the aviation authority of Germany                    $184 for a total estimated cost of $439
                                                                                                                                                           Safety.
                                             and are approved for operation in the                   per helicopter and $63,216 for the U.S.
                                             United States. Pursuant to our bilateral                fleet.                                                Adoption of the Amendment
                                             agreement with Germany, EASA, its                          According to Airbus Helicopter’s                     Accordingly, under the authority
                                             technical representative, has notified us               service information, some of the costs of             delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                             of the unsafe condition described in the                this AD may be covered under warranty,                the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
                                             EASA AD. We are issuing this AD                         thereby reducing the cost impact on                   follows:
                                             because we evaluated all information                    affected individuals. We do not control
                                             provided by EASA and determined the                     warranty coverage by Airbus                           PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
                                             unsafe condition exists and is likely to                Helicopters. Accordingly, we have                     DIRECTIVES
                                             exist or develop on other helicopters of                included all costs in our cost estimate.
                                             these same type designs and that air                                                                          ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                                                                                     Authority for This Rulemaking                         continues to read as follows:
                                             safety and the public interest require
                                             adopting the AD requirements as                            Title 49 of the United States Code                     Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                             proposed.                                               specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
                                                                                                     rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                 § 39.13    [Amended]
                                             Differences Between This AD and the                     section 106, describes the authority of               ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
                                             EASA AD                                                 the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:                  the following new airworthiness
                                               The EASA AD applies to Model                          Aviation Programs, describes in more                  directive (AD):
                                             MBB–BK117 D–2m helicopters, whereas                     detail the scope of the Agency’s
                                                                                                                                                           2018–20–09 Airbus Helicopters
                                             this AD does not since the Model MBB–                   authority.                                                Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39–
                                             BK117 D–2m is not FAA type-                                We are issuing this rulemaking under                   19443; Docket No. FAA–2018–0517;
                                             certificated. This AD also does not                     the authority described in Subtitle VII,                  Product Identifier 2017–SW–098–AD.
                                             include the Model MBB–BK117 C–2(e)                      Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
                                                                                                                                                           (a) Applicability
                                             in the applicability section because it is              ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
                                             a marketing designation and not an FAA                  section, Congress charges the FAA with                  This AD applies to Model MBB–BK 117 C–
                                             type-certificated model. However, this                  promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in            2 and Model MBB–BK 117 D–2 helicopters,
                                                                                                                                                           certificated in any category, with an overhead
                                             AD applies to those helicopters, as they                air commerce by prescribing regulations
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                                                                                                                                                           panel shock mount assembly part number (P/
                                             are Model MBB–BK117 C–2 helicopters.                    for practices, methods, and procedures                N) B246M2035102 or P/N B246M2036101
                                             The EASA AD specifies particular                        the Administrator finds necessary for                 installed.
                                             helicopter serial numbers (S/Ns) that                   safety in air commerce. This regulation                 Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD:
                                             may not be required to complete some                    is within the scope of that authority                 Helicopters with an MBB–BK117 C–2e
                                             of the requirements of the AD since the                 because it addresses an unsafe condition              designation are Model MBB–BK117 C–2
                                             specified S/Ns were manufactured with                   that is likely to exist or develop on                 helicopters.



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                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 192 / Wednesday, October 3, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                        49793

                                             (b) Unsafe Condition                                    (i) Material Incorporated by Reference                certain frame (FR) angle fitting. This AD
                                                This AD defines the unsafe condition as                 (1) The Director of the Federal Register           requires, depending on airplane
                                             failure of an overhead panel shock mount                approved the incorporation by reference of            configuration, a modification of certain
                                             assembly (shock mount). This condition                  the service information listed in this                angle fitting attachment holes; repetitive
                                             could result in detachment of the overhead              paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR             inspections for cracking of certain holes
                                             panel and injury to occupants during an                 part 51.                                              of the internal lower angle fitting web,
                                             emergency landing.                                         (2) You must use this service information
                                                                                                                                                           certain holes of the internal lower angle
                                                                                                     as applicable to do the actions required by
                                             (c) Effective Date                                      this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.           fitting horizontal splicing, the aft bottom
                                               This AD becomes effective November 7,                    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service               panel, and a certain junction area; and
                                             2018.                                                   Bulletin (ASB) MBB–BK117 C–2–24A–015,                 related investigative and corrective
                                                                                                     Revision 0, dated September 14, 2016.                 actions if necessary. We are issuing this
                                             (d) Compliance                                             (ii) Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB–BK117              AD to address the unsafe condition on
                                               You are responsible for performing each               D–2–24A–004, Revision 0, dated September              these products.
                                             action required by this AD within the                   14, 2016.
                                                                                                                                                           DATES: This AD is effective November 7,
                                             specified compliance time unless it has                    (3) For Airbus Helicopters service
                                                                                                     information identified in this AD, contact            2018.
                                             already been accomplished prior to that time.                                                                    The Director of the Federal Register
                                                                                                     Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive,
                                             (e) Required Actions                                    Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972)              approved the incorporation by reference
                                               (1) Within 300 hours time-in-service:                 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–            of certain publications listed in this AD
                                               (i) Install a retaining plate on each shock
                                                                                                     3775; or at http://                                   as of November 7, 2018.
                                                                                                     www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/               The Director of the Federal Register
                                             mount by following the Accomplishment
                                                                                                     Technical-Support_73.html.                            approved the incorporation by reference
                                             Instructions, paragraphs 3.B.2.1. through
                                                                                                        (4) You may view this service information          of a certain other publication listed in
                                             3.B.2.4, of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service            at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
                                             Bulletin (ASB) MBB–BK117 C–2–24A–015,                                                                         this AD as of December 19, 2005 (70 FR
                                                                                                     Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
                                             Revision 0, dated September 14, 2016 (ASB               Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For                69056, November 14, 2005).
                                             MBB–BK117 C–2–24A–015), or ASB MBB–                     information on the availability of this               ADDRESSES: For service information
                                             BK117 D–2–24A–004, Revision 0, dated                    material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.             identified in this final rule, contact
                                             September 14, 2016 (ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–                     (5) You may view this service information          Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—
                                             24A–004), as applicable to your model                   that is incorporated by reference at the              EAW, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No:
                                             helicopter.                                             National Archives and Records                         2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;
                                               (ii) Re-identify shock mount P/N                      Administration (NARA). For information on             telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5
                                             B246M2035102 as P/N B246M2035966 and                    the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                             shock mount P/N B246M2036101 as P/N                     (202) 741–6030, or go to: http://
                                                                                                                                                           61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-
                                             B246M2036966 using permanent ink. When                  www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            eas@airbus.com; internet http://
                                             the ink is dry, apply varnish over the P/N.             locations.html.                                       www.airbus.com. You may view this
                                               (iii) Re-install each shock mount.                                                                          service information at the FAA,
                                                                                                       Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September
                                               (2) After the effective date of this AD, do           24, 2018.
                                                                                                                                                           Transport Standards Branch, 2200
                                             not install a shock mount P/N                                                                                 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
                                                                                                     Lance T. Gant,
                                             B246M2035102 or P/N B246M2036101 on                                                                           information on the availability of this
                                             any helicopter.                                         Director, Compliance & Airworthiness                  material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
                                                                                                     Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
                                             (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance                                                                         It is also available on the internet at
                                                                                                     [FR Doc. 2018–21342 Filed 10–2–18; 8:45 am]
                                             (AMOCs)                                                                                                       http://www.regulations.gov by searching
                                                                                                     BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                                                                           for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
                                                (1) The Manager, Safety Management
                                             Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
                                                                                                                                                           0497.
                                             may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your                DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                          Examining the AD Docket
                                             proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation
                                             Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section,                                                                      You may examine the AD docket on
                                                                                                     Federal Aviation Administration
                                             Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101                                                                       the internet at http://
                                             Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;                                                                         www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                                                                     14 CFR Part 39
                                             telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASW-                                                                        and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
                                             FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.                              [Docket No. FAA–2018–0497; Product                    0497; or in person at Docket Operations
                                                (2) For operations conducted under a 14              Identifier 2017–NM–140–AD; Amendment                  between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
                                             CFR part 119 operating certificate or under             39–19418; AD 2018–19–18]                              through Friday, except Federal holidays.
                                             14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that              RIN 2120–AA64                                         The AD docket contains this final rule,
                                             you notify your principal inspector, or                                                                       the regulatory evaluation, any
                                             lacking a principal inspector, the manager of           Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS                  comments received, and other
                                             the local flight standards district office or           Airplanes                                             information. The address for Docket
                                             certificate holding district office, before                                                                   Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is
                                             operating any aircraft complying with this              AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
                                                                                                                                                           U.S. Department of Transportation,
                                             AD through an AMOC.                                     Administration (FAA), Department of
                                                                                                                                                           Docket Operations, M–30, West
                                             (g) Additional Information
                                                                                                     Transportation (DOT).
                                                                                                                                                           Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
                                                                                                     ACTION: Final rule.
                                               The subject of this AD is addressed in                                                                      1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
                                             European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD               SUMMARY:  We are adopting a new                       Washington, DC 20590.
                                             No. 2017–0026, dated February 14, 2017. You             airworthiness directive (AD) for certain              FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan
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                                             may view the EASA AD on the internet at                 Airbus SAS Model A300 B4–603, B4–                     Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
                                             http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No.                                                                      International Section, Transport
                                                                                                     620, and B4–622 airplanes; Model A300
                                             FAA–2018–0517.
                                                                                                     B4–600R series airplanes; Model A300                  Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
                                             (h) Subject                                             C4–605R Variant F airplanes; and Model                216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
                                               Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)               A300 F4–605R airplanes. This AD was                   telephone and fax 206–231–3225.
                                             Code: 2400, Electrical Power System.                    prompted by reports of cracking on a                  SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:



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Document Created: 2018-10-03 02:29:56
Document Modified: 2018-10-03 02:29:56
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective November 7, 2018.
ContactMatt 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 Citation83 FR 49791 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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