83_FR_60603 83 FR 60376 - Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) Helicopters

83 FR 60376 - Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) Helicopters

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 227 (November 26, 2018)

Page Range60376-60378
FR Document2018-25497

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for MDHI Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369FF, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N helicopters. This proposed AD would require inspecting each main rotor blade (MRB) for a crack. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of cracked MRBs. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these helicopters.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 227 (Monday, November 26, 2018) 
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 227 (Monday, November 26, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 60376-60378]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-25497]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0991; Product Identifier 2017-SW-050-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
MDHI Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369FF, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, 
and 600N helicopters. This proposed AD would require inspecting each 
main rotor blade (MRB) for a crack. This proposed AD is prompted by 
reports of cracked MRBs. The actions of this proposed AD are intended 
to address an unsafe condition on these helicopters.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 25, 
2019.

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-2018-
0991; 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 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 Helicopter Technology Company, LLC service information 
identified in this proposed rule, contact Helicopter Technology 
Company, LLC, 12902 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90061; telephone 
(310) 523-2750; or at www.helicoptertech.com. You may review the 
referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional 
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort 
Worth, TX 76177.
    For MD Helicopters service information identified in this proposed 
rule, contact MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 
4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, AZ 85215-9734; telephone 1-
800-388-3378; fax 480-346-6813; or at http://www.mdhelicopters.com.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Galib Abumeri, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance and Airworthiness 
Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; 
telephone (562) 627-5374; 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

[[Page 60377]]

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 propose to adopt a new AD for MDHI Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 
369FF, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N helicopters with a 
Helicopter Technology Company, LLC (HTC) MRB part number 369A1100, 
369D21100, 369D21102, 369D21120, 369D21121, 369D21123, 500P2100, or 
500P2300 installed. This proposed AD would require repetitively 
inspecting the MRB trim tab for gouges, nicks, scratches, and cracks.
    This proposed AD is prompted by reports of two operators finding 
cracks on an HTC-manufactured MRB. In both cases, the cracking was 
located on the MRB skin adjacent to the trim tab, and they were 
discovered following flights in which an increase in vibration levels 
was noticed. HTC determined the root cause of the cracking to be 
fatigue. HTC also stated that there was evidence of impact damage, 
filing, and sanding under the paint of the cracked MRBs. If not 
detected and corrected, this condition could result in failure of an 
MRB and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant 
information and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is 
likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type 
designs.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed HTC Mandatory Service Bulletin Notice No. 2100-9, dated 
May 25, 2017 (SB 2100-9), which contains procedures for inspecting each 
MRB for a crack in an area adjacent to the inboard edge of the MRB trim 
tab.
    We also reviewed MD Helicopters Service Bulletin No. SB369D-221, 
SB369E-119, SB369F-106, SB369H-257, SB500N-057, and SB600N-069, each 
dated April 2, 2018. This service information specifies inspecting the 
MRBs for cracks near the trim tab by following the instructions in SB 
2100-9.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require, within 25 hours time-in-service and 
thereafter at each 100-hour or annual inspection, inspecting each MRB 
trim tab end at the trailing edge corner where the trim tab and MRB 
meet for cracks, and inspecting the top and bottom surface of each MRB 
for a crack in the area adjacent to inboard trim tab the trim tab 
corner for a crack, from the trailing edge towards the leading edge. If 
there is a crack, this proposed AD would require replacing the MRB.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    The service information specifies procedures for inspecting each 
MRB for nicks, gouges, and scratches. This proposed AD does not, as the 
unsafe condition concerns a crack in the MRB. This proposed AD would 
require using a 10X magnifying glass for both inspections, while the 
service information only specifies this level of magnification for the 
inspection of the top and bottom surfaces of the MRB.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 622 helicopters of 
U.S. Registry.
    At an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, we estimate that 
operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this 
AD. Inspecting one MRB would require about 0.1 work-hour, for a cost 
per helicopter of $43 for MDHI Model 369-series and 500N helicopters 
and $51 for MDHI Model 600N helicopters, and a total cost of $25,320 to 
U.S. operators per inspection cycle.
    If required, replacing one MRB would require 3 work-hours, and 
required parts would cost $13,000, for a cost per MRB of $13,255.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

MD Helicopters Inc.: Docket No. FAA-2018-0991; Product Identifier 
2017-SW-050-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to MD Helicopters Inc. Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 
369FF, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N helicopters, 
certificated in any category, with a main rotor blade (MRB) part 
number 369A1100, 369D21100, 369D21102, 369D21120, 369D21121, 
369D21123, 500P2100, or 500P2300, all dash numbers, installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in an MRB. This 
condition could result

[[Page 60378]]

in failure of the MRB and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

(c) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by January 25, 2019.

(d) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been 
accomplished prior to that time.

(e) Required Actions

    Within 25 hours time-in-service, and thereafter at each 100-hour 
inspection or annual inspection, whichever occurs first:
    (1) Using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass and a light, 
inspect each MRB trim tab end at the trailing edge corner where the 
trim tab and MRB meet for a crack. If there is a crack, before 
further flight, replace the MRB.
    (2) Using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass and a light, 
inspect the top and bottom surface of each MRB adjacent to the 
inboard trim tab corner for a crack, from the trailing edge towards 
the leading edge. If there is a crack, before further flight, 
replace the MRB.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC)

    (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Galib Abumeri, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance and Airworthiness 
Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; 
telephone (562) 627-5374; 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

    (1) Helicopter Technology Company, LLC Mandatory Service 
Bulletin Notice No. 2100-9, dated May 25, 2017, which is not 
incorporated by reference, contains additional information about the 
subject of this AD. For Helicopter Technology Company, LLC service 
information identified in this AD, contact Helicopter Technology 
Company, LLC, 12902 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90061; telephone 
(310) 523-2750; or at www.helicoptertech.com.
    (2) MD Helicopters Service Bulletin No. SB369D-221, SB369E-119, 
SB369F-106, SB369H-257, SB500N-057, and SB600N-069, each dated April 
2, 2018, which are not incorporated by reference, contain additional 
information about the subject of this AD. For MD Helicopters service 
information identified in this AD, contact MD Helicopters, Inc., 
Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop 
M615, Mesa, AZ 85215-9734; telephone 1-800-388-3378; fax 480-346-
6813; or at http://www.mdhelicopters.com.
    (3) You may review a copy of information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6210 Main Rotor 
Blade.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on November 14, 2018.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-25497 Filed 11-23-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

60376 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 227 / Monday, November 26, 2018 / Proposed Rules (h) Functional Check SE–581 88, Linköping, Sweden; telephone www.regulations.gov by searching for Within 1,500 flight hours or 12 months +46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– after the effective date of this AD, whichever saab2000.techsupport@saabgroup.com; 0991; or in person at Docket Operations occurs first, accomplish a functional check of internet http://www.saabgroup.com. You between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday the fuel indicator gauging accuracy and the may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 through Friday, except Federal holidays. low level warning, in accordance with the The AD docket contains this proposed Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For Bulletin 2000–28–028, dated April 19, 2018. information on the availability of this AD, the economic evaluation, any material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. comments received, and other (i) Corrective Action information. The street address for Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on If the functional check required by November 8, 2018. Docket Operations (telephone 800–647– paragraph (h) of this AD is found to be out 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. of tolerance, within the limits and under the Chris Spangenberg, Comments will be available in the AD applicable conditions, as specified in the Acting Director, System Oversight Division, operator’s Minimum Equipment List, replace Aircraft Certification Service. docket shortly after receipt. the affected part with a serviceable part, in For Helicopter Technology Company, [FR Doc. 2018–25495 Filed 11–23–18; 8:45 am] accordance with the Accomplishment LLC service information identified in BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 2000– this proposed rule, contact Helicopter 28–028, dated April 19, 2018. Technology Company, LLC, 12902 (j) Parts Installation Limitation South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 90061; telephone (310) 523–2750; or at As of the effective date of this AD, no www.helicoptertech.com. You may person may install, on any airplane, an Federal Aviation Administration affected part, unless it is a serviceable part, review the referenced service as defined in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. 14 CFR Part 39 information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, (k) Other FAA AD Provisions [Docket No. FAA–2018–0991; Product 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, The following provisions also apply to this Identifier 2017–SW–050–AD] Fort Worth, TX 76177. AD: For MD Helicopters service RIN 2120–AA64 (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance information identified in this proposed (AMOCs): The Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, Airworthiness Directives; MD rule, contact MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: has the authority to approve AMOCs for this Helicopters Inc. (MDHI) Helicopters Customer Support Division, 4555 E. AD, if requested using the procedures found McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, AGENCY: Federal Aviation in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR AZ 85215–9734; telephone 1–800–388– Administration (FAA), DOT. 39.19, send your request to your principal 3378; fax 480–346–6813; or at http:// inspector or local Flight Standards District ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking www.mdhelicopters.com. Office, as appropriate. If sending information (NPRM). directly to the International Section, send it FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: to the attention of the person identified in SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new Galib Abumeri, Aviation Safety paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may airworthiness directive (AD) for MDHI Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC- Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369FF, 369H, Compliance and Airworthiness REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., approved AMOC, notify your appropriate helicopters. This proposed AD would Lakewood, California 90712; telephone principal inspector, or lacking a principal require inspecting each main rotor blade (562) 627–5374; email galib.abumeri@ inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding (MRB) for a crack. This proposed AD is faa.gov. district office. prompted by reports of cracked MRBs. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any The actions of this proposed AD are requirement in this AD to obtain corrective intended to address an unsafe condition Comments Invited actions from a manufacturer, the action must on these helicopters. We invite you to participate in this be accomplished using a method approved DATES: We must receive comments on rulemaking by submitting written by the Manager, International Section, comments, data, or views. We also this proposed AD by January 25, 2019. Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or ADDRESSES: You may send comments by invite comments relating to the Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics’s EASA Design any of the following methods: economic, environmental, energy, or Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to federalism impacts that might result the DOA, the approval must include the http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the from adopting the proposals in this DOA-authorized signature. online instructions for sending your document. The most helpful comments (l) Related Information comments electronically. reference a specific portion of the (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing • Fax: 202–493–2251. proposal, explain the reason for any Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. recommended change, and include Airworthiness Directive 2018–0187, dated Department of Transportation, Docket supporting data. To ensure the docket August 29, 2018, for related information. Operations, M–30, West Building does not contain duplicate comments, This MCAI may be found in the AD docket Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 commenters should send only one copy on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC of written comments, or if comments are by searching for and locating Docket No. 20590–0001. filed electronically, commenters should FAA–2018–0964. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the submit only one time. (2) For more information about this AD, ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 We will file in the docket all contact Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace comments that we receive, as well as a Engineer, International Section, Transport p.m., Monday through Friday, except Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th Federal holidays. report summarizing each substantive St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and public contact with FAA personnel Examining the AD Docket concerning this proposed rulemaking. fax 206–231–3220. (3) For service information identified in You may examine the AD docket on Before acting on this proposal, we will this AD, contact Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics, the internet at http:// consider all comments we receive on or VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 23, 2018 Jkt 247001 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\26NOP1.SGM 26NOP1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 227 / Monday, November 26, 2018 / Proposed Rules 60377 before the closing date for comments. the trim tab and MRB meet for cracks, Regulatory Findings We will consider comments filed after and inspecting the top and bottom We determined that this proposed AD the comment period has closed if it is surface of each MRB for a crack in the would not have federalism implications possible to do so without incurring area adjacent to inboard trim tab the under Executive Order 13132. This expense or delay. We may change this trim tab corner for a crack, from the proposed AD would not have a proposal in light of the comments we trailing edge towards the leading edge. substantial direct effect on the States, on receive. If there is a crack, this proposed AD the relationship between the national would require replacing the MRB. Government and the States, or on the Discussion Differences Between This Proposed AD distribution of power and We propose to adopt a new AD for and the Service Information responsibilities among the various MDHI Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369FF, levels of government. 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, The service information specifies For the reasons discussed, I certify and 600N helicopters with a Helicopter procedures for inspecting each MRB for this proposed regulation: Technology Company, LLC (HTC) MRB nicks, gouges, and scratches. This 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory part number 369A1100, 369D21100, proposed AD does not, as the unsafe action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 369D21102, 369D21120, 369D21121, condition concerns a crack in the MRB. 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the 369D21123, 500P2100, or 500P2300 This proposed AD would require using DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures installed. This proposed AD would a 10X magnifying glass for both (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); require repetitively inspecting the MRB inspections, while the service 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in trim tab for gouges, nicks, scratches, and information only specifies this level of Alaska to the extent that it justifies cracks. magnification for the inspection of the making a regulatory distinction; and This proposed AD is prompted by top and bottom surfaces of the MRB. 4. Will not have a significant reports of two operators finding cracks economic impact, positive or negative, on an HTC-manufactured MRB. In both Costs of Compliance on a substantial number of small entities cases, the cracking was located on the under the criteria of the Regulatory We estimate that this proposed AD MRB skin adjacent to the trim tab, and Flexibility Act. would affect 622 helicopters of U.S. they were discovered following flights We prepared an economic evaluation Registry. in which an increase in vibration levels of the estimated costs to comply with was noticed. HTC determined the root At an average labor rate of $85 per this proposed AD and placed it in the cause of the cracking to be fatigue. HTC work-hour, we estimate that operators AD docket. also stated that there was evidence of may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Inspecting one List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 impact damage, filing, and sanding under the paint of the cracked MRBs. If MRB would require about 0.1 work- Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation not detected and corrected, this hour, for a cost per helicopter of $43 for safety, Incorporation by reference, condition could result in failure of an MDHI Model 369-series and 500N Safety. MRB and subsequent loss of control of helicopters and $51 for MDHI Model 600N helicopters, and a total cost of The Proposed Amendment the helicopter. $25,320 to U.S. operators per inspection Accordingly, under the authority FAA’s Determination cycle. delegated to me by the Administrator, We are proposing this AD because we If required, replacing one MRB would the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part evaluated all known relevant require 3 work-hours, and required parts 39 as follows: information and determined that an would cost $13,000, for a cost per MRB unsafe condition exists and is likely to PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS of $13,255. DIRECTIVES exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. Authority for This Rulemaking ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Related Service Information Title 49 of the United States Code continues to read as follows: specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. We reviewed HTC Mandatory Service rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Bulletin Notice No. 2100–9, dated May § 39.13 [Amended] section 106, describes the authority of 25, 2017 (SB 2100–9), which contains the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding procedures for inspecting each MRB for Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more the following new airworthiness a crack in an area adjacent to the detail the scope of the Agency’s directive (AD): inboard edge of the MRB trim tab. We also reviewed MD Helicopters authority. MD Helicopters Inc.: Docket No. FAA– Service Bulletin No. SB369D–221, We are issuing this rulemaking under 2018–0991; Product Identifier 2017–SW– SB369E–119, SB369F–106, SB369H– the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, 050–AD. 257, SB500N–057, and SB600N–069, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: (a) Applicability each dated April 2, 2018. This service General requirements.’’ Under that This AD applies to MD Helicopters Inc. information specifies inspecting the section, Congress charges the FAA with Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369FF, 369H, MRBs for cracks near the trim tab by promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N following the instructions in SB air commerce by prescribing regulations helicopters, certificated in any category, with 2100–9. for practices, methods, and procedures a main rotor blade (MRB) part number the Administrator finds necessary for 369A1100, 369D21100, 369D21102, Proposed AD Requirements safety in air commerce. This regulation 369D21120, 369D21121, 369D21123, This proposed AD would require, is within the scope of that authority 500P2100, or 500P2300, all dash numbers, installed. within 25 hours time-in-service and because it addresses an unsafe condition thereafter at each 100-hour or annual that is likely to exist or develop on (b) Unsafe Condition inspection, inspecting each MRB trim products identified in this rulemaking This AD defines the unsafe condition as a tab end at the trailing edge corner where action. crack in an MRB. This condition could result VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 23, 2018 Jkt 247001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\26NOP1.SGM 26NOP1

60378 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 227 / Monday, November 26, 2018 / Proposed Rules in failure of the MRB and subsequent loss of (3) You may review a copy of information FAA–2018–0256; Airspace Docket No. control of the helicopter. at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, 18–AEA–11, at the beginning of your Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, comments. You may also submit (c) Comments Due Date Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. We must receive comments by January 25, comments through the internet at http:// 2019. (h) Subject www.regulations.gov. Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) FAA Order 7400.11C, Airspace (d) Compliance Designations and Reporting Points, and Code: 6210 Main Rotor Blade. You are responsible for performing each subsequent amendments can be viewed action required by this AD within the Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on November 14, 2018. on line at http://www.faa.gov/air_ specified compliance time unless it has traffic/publications/. For further already been accomplished prior to that time. Lance T. Gant, information, you can contact the Director, Compliance & Airworthiness (e) Required Actions Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation Division, Aircraft Certification Service. Within 25 hours time-in-service, and Administration, 800 Independence [FR Doc. 2018–25497 Filed 11–23–18; 8:45 am] thereafter at each 100-hour inspection or Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; annual inspection, whichever occurs first: BILLING CODE 4910–13–P telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is (1) Using a 10X or higher power also available for inspection at the magnifying glass and a light, inspect each National Archives and Records MRB trim tab end at the trailing edge corner DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION where the trim tab and MRB meet for a crack. Administration (NARA). For If there is a crack, before further flight, Federal Aviation Administration information on the availability of FAA replace the MRB. Order 7400.11C at NARA, call (202) (2) Using a 10X or higher power 14 CFR Part 71 741–6030, or go to https:// magnifying glass and a light, inspect the top www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ and bottom surface of each MRB adjacent to [Docket No. FAA–2018–0256; Airspace ibr-locations.html. the inboard trim tab corner for a crack, from Docket No. 18–AEA–11] FAA Order 7400.11, Airspace the trailing edge towards the leading edge. If Designations and Reporting Points, is there is a crack, before further flight, replace RIN 2120–AA66 the MRB. published yearly and effective on Proposed Amendment of Class D September 15. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John (AMOC) Airspace and Class E Airspace; Schenectady, NY, Ithaca, NY, and Fornito, Operations Support Group, (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Albany, NY Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send Administration, 1701 Columbia Ave, your proposal to: Galib Abumeri, Aviation AGENCY: Federal Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, College Park, GA 30337; telephone (404) Administration (FAA), DOT. 305–6364. Compliance and Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: California 90712; telephone (562) 627–5374; (NPRM). email 9-ANM-LAACO-AMOC-REQUESTS@ Authority for This Rulemaking faa.gov. SUMMARY: This action proposes to The FAA’s authority to issue rules (2) For operations conducted under a 14 amend Class D airspace, Class E regarding aviation safety is found in CFR part 119 operating certificate or under airspace designated as an extension to a 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that Title 49 of the United States Code. Class D surface area, and Class E you notify your principal inspector, or Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the airspace extending upward from 700 lacking a principal inspector, the manager of authority of the FAA Administrator. feet or more above the surface at the local flight standards district office or Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, Schenectady County Airport, certificate holding district office before describes in more detail the scope of the operating any aircraft complying with this Schenectady, NY, and Albany, NY by agency’s authority. This rulemaking is AD through an AMOC. updating the geographic coordinates of promulgated under the authority this airport, Saratoga County Airport, (g) Additional Information described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Hunter NDB, and Cambridge VORTAC. (1) Helicopter Technology Company, LLC Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that Controlled airspace is necessary for the Mandatory Service Bulletin Notice No. 2100– section, the FAA is charged with safety and management of instrument 9, dated May 25, 2017, which is not prescribing regulations to assign the use flight rules (IFR) operations at this incorporated by reference, contains of airspace necessary to ensure the additional information about the subject of airport. This action also would replace safety of aircraft and the efficient use of this AD. For Helicopter Technology the outdated term Airport/Facility airspace. This regulation is within the Company, LLC service information identified Directory with the term Chart scope of that authority as it would in this AD, contact Helicopter Technology Supplement in the legal descriptions of amend Class D and Class E airspace at Company, LLC, 12902 South Broadway, Los associated Class D and E airspace of Angeles, CA 90061; telephone (310) 523– Schenectady County Airport, Schenectady County Airport, 2750; or at www.helicoptertech.com. Schenectady, NY and Ithaca Tompkins Schenectady, NY, and Ithaca Tompkins (2) MD Helicopters Service Bulletin No. Regional Airport, Ithaca, NY, to support Regional Airport, Ithaca, NY. SB369D–221, SB369E–119, SB369F–106, IFR operations at these airports. SB369H–257, SB500N–057, and SB600N– DATES: Comments must be received on 069, each dated April 2, 2018, which are not or before January 10, 2019. Comments Invited incorporated by reference, contain additional ADDRESSES: Send comments on this Interested persons are invited to information about the subject of this AD. For proposal to: U.S. Department of comment on this proposed rulemaking MD Helicopters service information Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200 by submitting such written data, views, identified in this AD, contact MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building or arguments, as they may desire. Division, 4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Comments that provide the factual basis M615, Mesa, AZ 85215–9734; telephone 1– Washington, DC 20590; Telephone: supporting the views and suggestions 800–388–3378; fax 480–346–6813; or at (800) 647–5527, or (202) 366–9826. You presented are particularly helpful in http://www.mdhelicopters.com. must identify the Docket No. developing reasoned regulatory VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Nov 23, 2018 Jkt 247001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\26NOP1.SGM 26NOP1


Document Created: 2018-11-24 00:52:20
Document Modified: 2018-11-24 00:52:20
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 25, 2019.
ContactGalib Abumeri, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance and Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627-5374; email [email protected]
FR Citation83 FR 60376 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
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