[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 190 (Monday, October 3, 1994)] [Unknown Section] [Page 0] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: 94-24218] [[Page Unknown]] [Federal Register: October 3, 1994] _______________________________________________________________________ Part IV Department of Transportation _______________________________________________________________________ Federal Aviation Administration _______________________________________________________________________ 14 CFR Parts 27 and 29 Airworthiness Standards; Crash Resistant Fuel Systems in Normal and Transport Category Rotorcraft; Final Rule DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Parts 27 and 29 [Docket No. 26352 Amdts. 27-30, 29-35] RIN 2120-AC68 Airworthiness Standards; Crash Resistant Fuel Systems in Normal and Transport Category Rotorcraft AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: These amendments add comprehensive crash resistant fuel system design and test criteria to the airworthiness standards for normal and transport category rotorcraft. Application of these standards will minimize fuel spillage near ignition sources and potential ignition sources and, therefore, will improve the evacuation time needed for crew and passengers to escape a post-crash fire (PCF). Implementation of these amendments will minimize the PCF hazard saving lives and substantially reducing the severity of physiological injuries sustained from PCF's in otherwise survivable accidents. EFFECTIVE DATE: November 2, 1994. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Mike Mathias, Regulations Group, ASW-111, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-0111, telephone number (817) 624-5123. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background These amendments are based on a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) No. 90-24, issued September 27, 1990 (55 FR 41000, October 5, 1990). A correction to the NPRM was published on December 11, 1990 (55 FR 50931). Post-crash fires (PCF's) are the primary cause of fatalities and injuries in otherwise survivable impacts resulting from rotorcraft accidents. It is estimated that 5 percent of the occupants in survivable rotorcraft accidents are killed or injured by PCF's annually. These types of fatalities and traumatic injuries will be substantially reduced by the implementation of the design and test criteria of this amendment. Nearly all PCF's are caused by crash- induced fuel leaks that quickly come in contact with ignition sources during or after impact. The fuel containment and hazard elimination provisions contained in this amendment will, in the majority of cases, give occupants the time necessary to escape a survivable crash before a post-crash fire (PCF) could become life threatening. A crash resistant fuel system (CRFS) would not be expected to prevent all fires; however, a CRFS would, in the majority of survivable accidents, either prevent a PCF or delay the massive fire, or fireball, long enough to allow the occupants to escape. These standards have been validated by military safety statistics as significantly minimizing the PCF hazard and its associated fatalities and injuries. Discussion of Comments General Thirteen commenters, including representatives from small and large U.S. helicopter manufacturers, foreign airworthiness authorities, and foreign helicopter manufacturers, commented on the NPRM. All commenters agree with the FAA that CFRS installations will improve occupant survivability in parts 27 and 29 rotorcraft. The majority of commenters fully support all of the proposals. No commenter opposes adoption of the proposed amendments. One commenter proposes adoption of more stringent standards, and several commenters offer other counterproposals and recommendations for specific proposals. General Comments on the Proposals Unless specifically noted otherwise, the comments and responses apply to both proposed Secs. 27.952 and 29.952, since the requirements in both are identical. The Use of the Term ``Flammable Fluid'' Flammable fluids other than fuel should not be included in the amendments, since all on-board light and heavy oil systems are affected. Accordingly, the commenter proposes that ``flammable fluid'' be changed to ``fuel.'' The FAA agrees with this comment, and appropriate changes have been made. Accuracy of the Economic Analysis One commenter questions the accuracy of the economic analysis but offers no specific recommendations or corrections. The FAA has reevaluated the analysis and found no changes were necessary based on this comment. Rigidity of the Proposals A commenter states that the proposed amendments are ``too rigid'' in their approach and limit the designers' choices. The FAA disagrees. Although the 50-foot drop height and certain strength requirements are specific, these and most of the other requirements do not mandate specific designs. Objective rules allow flexibility in showing compliance. An example of this flexibility is that bladders are not mandated; the rule specifies only freedom from leakage after impact. The amendments are intended to be as flexible as possible to allow design innovation while at the same time requiring a specific safety standard for a CRFS. Level of Detail in the Proposals A commenter states that the amendments include some very detailed requirements that are more appropriate for a Technical Standard Order (TSO). The FAA agrees that some of the details proposed for paragraphs 27.952 (e) and (f) and 29.952 (e) and (f) should not be regulatory requirements, are more appropriate for an advisory circular, and should not be part of the proposed standard. Therefore, those details have been removed and placed in the draft advisory material. However, the FAA disagrees with the commenter that the level of detail either in the proposals or in the advisory material would necessitate a CRFS TSO. The Standardized Approach of the Proposals A commenter believes that the standardized design and test approach of these amendments to CRFS certification, while acceptable, is not as valid as the establishment of individual design criteria on a case-by- case basis followed by a design review and a test program. However, the commenter offered no specific data or case histories to substantiate this position. Since all past successful civil and military experience has been with a standardized design and test approach, the FAA finds no historical or technical basis to support the commenter. Moreover, the FAA has determined that a standardized design and test approach, when properly applied, still allows for adequate use of individual design features that meet the specific safety standards. Military Standards A commenter expresses concern that the proposals are less stringent than the corresponding military standard because of perceived differences in the military and civil environments. The commenter is especially concerned that fuel tank bladders are not mandated. The commenter proposes verbatim adoption of the military standards. The FAA disagrees. Based on independent studies, the General Aviation Safety Panel (GASP) committee recommendations, and past civil CRFS service experience, the FAA has determined that the proposals, while less stringent than the military standard, provide an equivalent level of safety considering the differences (such as violent atypical flight maneuvers, landing maneuvers, and gunfire hazards) in the civil and military environments. While it is anticipated that most successful fuel cell designs will involve the use of bladders, bladderless rigid designs (that provide the same level of safety as designs with bladders) may be approved under the new standard. Comment Concerning Performance Criteria Specification One commenter applauds the fact that the proposal specified performance standards (i.e., a minimum level of safety) in lieu of unnecessarily mandating certain specific design features such as flexible liners. Comments on Specific Proposals Comments on Section 27.561(d) A commenter questions the need for the specification of load factors in proposed Sec. 27.516(d), since similar load factors are specified in proposed Sec. 27.952(b)(3). The FAA has determined that load factors are needed in both Secs. 27.561(d) and 27.952(b)(3). Section 27.561(d) applies to fuselage structure, and Sec. 27.952(b)(3) applies to fuel tanks. Although the load factors are identical, they are specified for different parts of the rotorcraft. Another commenter correctly states that the load factors are clearly specified for fuel cells by their location on the rotorcraft but asks which load factors are to be used for other major fuel system components. The load factors used for each fuel cell location should be used for fuel cell components of significant mass in the same locations. Therefore, this amendment is adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(a) and 29.952(a) A commenter states that identification of a critical fuel tank (if such exists) should not be allowed in certification. The FAA does not agree. The use of critical conditions, systems, etc., is a well- established technique for substantiating similar design features. Therefore, these amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(a)(1) and 29.952(a)(1) All commenters support the proposed drop test, and most commenters favor the 50-foot drop height. However, two commenters propose a reduction in the drop height for a bare fuel cell from 50 to 25 feet. Another commenter proposed a reduction in drop height of a fuel cell test article configuration (i.e., a fuel cell installed in its representative airframe structure) from 50 to 15 feet. Another commenter contends that since the military fuel cell drop test (and nearly 20 years of associated, successful safety experience) is at a 65-foot drop height, the proposed drop height should be 65 feet, not 50 feet. The proposed 50-foot drop height is based, in part, on an analysis of nearly 20 years of combined military and civilian design and operational data. (The 15-foot reduction in drop height from the military standard to the proposed civil standard equates their level of safety because of the elimination of the additional risks associated with the military environment.) A significant part of this 20 years of data is based on approximately 1,500 civil rotorcraft that have been certificated (on a voluntary, nonhazard basis) to design standards (including a 50-foot drop test) analogous to these proposals. This 20 years of data and experience (from both the military and voluntary civil unit installations) have resulted in a good operational safety record. This good safety record indicates that fuel tank installations designed to these proposals (including the practical standard of a 50- foot drop height) successfully minimize the post-crash fire hazard. Therefore, no change to the 50-foot drop height is warranted. Another commenter proposes deletion of the requirement to drop the fuel cell in its surrounding structure. The same commenter asks if the bare tank drop test will follow the procedure of MIL-T-27422B when the surrounding structure is free of projections or design features likely to contribute to tank ruptures. Another commenter states that the requirement to drop a representative structure should be fully defined. The same commenter states that no mention is made of production drop test requirements that would be made necessary by postproduction design changes to either the fuel system or its surrounding structure. The FAA considers these suggested changes unnecessary because (under Part 21) a design review (precipitated by a proposed design modification that affects the fuel cell-airframe interface) would automatically require a review of the interface with regard to these proposed standards. If that design review shows the surrounding structure is free of projections and hazards, the fuel cell may be dropped alone. Additionally, MIL-T-27422B procedures may be used, except that the drop height is reduced to 50 feet. Further, major post certification design changes, such as major changes to the fuel system cells or their locations, automatically require recertification in accordance with FAR 21.93(a). Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(a)(3) and 29.952(a)(3) A commenter notes that the proposed drop test criteria require that the fuel cell test article be filled 80 percent with water with no mention of the contents of the other 20 percent. The commenter states that this is different from part 23 Notice No. 85-7A (55 FR 7280, February 28, 1990) in that the proposed rotorcraft amendments do not require the air to be removed from the fuel cell prior to the drop test. The commenter suggests that the best method of compensating for the difference between the density of fuel and water is to leave the tank 100 percent full of fuel and adjust the drop height to a lower value. The FAA notes that the drop test criteria proposed in Notice 90-24 are the same as those proposed in part 23 Notice 85-7A and the same as those used to comply with MIL-T-27422B. There are standard, acceptable methods of configuring (i.e., properly removing the air from) a soft flexible fuel cell, and there are standard, acceptable methods of configuring (i.e., properly removing the air from) the vents on a rigid fuel cell. The air removal methods intended by these proposals are the same as those used to comply with MIL-T-27422B and are accepted, industry practice. It is impracticable to remove a significant amount of air from many rigid fuel cell designs by pulling a vacuum without either inducing unacceptable stresses or causing structural failure. Extreme vacuum conditions inside fuel tanks do not exist in practice. However, natural venting (involving partial vacuums) exists for rigid tanks in a pre-crash, falling condition. A natural partial vacuum condition is intended to be duplicated for rigid tanks by allowing normal vent function during the drop test. Flexible fuel cells will have the air removed by hand (i.e., by pushing out the air and resealing the bag) prior to the drop as is currently practiced by the industry. The method chosen to compensate for the density of water versus that of fuel (i.e., 80 percent full of water) is a standard method. It is used successfully by the civil rotorcraft industry. The commenter's alternate method of reducing the drop height has some merit but is not supported by current, known data. Therefore, these amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(a)(4) and 29.952(a)(4) A commenter notes that the amendments differ from MIL-T-27422B, in that the amendments require that the tank be dropped in its surrounding structure, unless it is clearly shown that the structure is free from projections and other such hazards. The commenter suggests that the FAA not adopt the requirement to drop the tank in the surrounding structure. The FAA disagrees. The FAA concluded that in the interests of safety the tank should be dropped in its surrounding structure. Only when all projections and other puncture hazards have been minimized by design will dropping a bare fuel cell suffice to show compliance. The FAA's approach improves on the MIL-T-27422B criteria in that an FAA- approved, documented certification design review will be required to minimize the surrounding airframe projections and other puncture hazards prior to a bare tank drop test. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(b) and 29.952(b) A commenter states that the load factors proposed in these sections are redundant to those contained in structural Secs. 27.561 and 29.561(d), that no procedures to conduct these tests have been defined, and that the cost of this type of testing is not addressed. Two other commenters question the need for specification of separate load factors by rotorcraft zone (i.e., location) for fuel cells that exceed the standard airframe load factors. The FAA disagrees that the proposed load factors are redundant. They are for fuel cells and major mass items in the fuel system only. The load factors are to be used in standard structural analysis to structurally design the fuel cells, other major fuel system mass items, and their attachments. No special tests, other than the required structural substantiation tests are intended. No costs have been added since the required structural analysis and test programs are already conducted during certification for these components to the current load factors. The separate load factor specification by zone is necessary to provide proper crash resistance for occupant safety and PCF prevention for fuel system components located in three selected zones of the rotorcraft. They also provide the designer with specific criteria (i.e., load factors) for proper static analysis of fuel system components in these specific zones. The load factors proposed by Secs. 27.952(b) and 29.952(b) are for fuel system components only; whereas, the load factors of current Sec. 29.561(d) are for the airframe only. However, load factors for fuel system components and airframe components are compatible. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(b)(2) and 29.952(b)(2) A commenter suggests that the words ``* * * that if loosened could injure an occupant in an emergency landing * * *.'' be removed from Secs. 27.952(b)(2) and 29.952(b)(2). The commenter believes removal to be necessary because this phrase is intended to minimize a ``mechanical'' ballistic hazard from fuel system components and not a PCF hazard. The amendments, in the commenter's view, are only intended to minimize a PCF. The commenter's presumption is incorrect. The amendments are intended to provide a CRFS. This includes preventing impact-induced, ballistic hazards to fuel system components as well as PCF hazards. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(c) and 29.952(c) A commenter believes that the proposed amendments mandate self- sealing breakaway couplings and suggests that the amendments be revised to include the words ``Where hazardous relative motion of fuel system components is likely to exist during a crash, breakaway self-sealing couplings shall be required.'' Another commenter suggests that no alternate, equivalent designs to breakaway fuel fittings be allowed by the amendments. A third commenter points out that there is no mention of any pull-out strength requirements for fuel tank fittings as stated in MIL-T-27422B. The amendments already express the intent of the wording suggested by the first commenter concerning hazardous relative motion. Further, the FAA does not agree with the second comment that alternate, equivalent designs to breakaway fuel fittings should not be allowed, since several proven, alternate, equivalent designs have already been approved. Thus, alternate, equivalent designs for breakaway fuel fittings are acceptable. In response to the third commenter, fitting strength and hose pull-out strength requirements of MIL-T-27422B are industry practice and are acceptable as one means of compliance. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(c)(1)(iii) and 29.952(c)(1)(iii) A commenter suggests that Secs. 27.952(c)(2)(iii) and 29.952(c)(1)(iii) be changed to specify leakage as one method of detecting an unlocked or otherwise faulty breakaway coupling. The FAA agrees that leakage is one method of detecting an unlocked coupling but finds that the proposed wording of ``design provisions to visually ascertain'' adequately covers consideration of leakage as a means to verify locking of the couplings. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(c)(1)(v) and 29.952(c)(1)(v) A commenter suggests that Secs. 27.952(c)(1)(v) and 29.952(c)(1)(v) be changed to allow ``fuel seepage'' after a breakaway coupling has performed its intended function. The FAA agrees with the intent of the comment but has determined that this kind of detail is more appropriate in advisory guidance material. It is intended that industry practice, which allows loss of entrapped fuel (up to 8 ounces) and fuel seepage (up to 5 drops per minute), be acceptable after the valve has functioned. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(d) and 29.952(d) A commenter suggests adding a sentence between the second and third sentences of Secs. 27.952(d) and 29.952(d) as follows: ``For tanks using a flexible tank or flexible liner, all filler caps and tank fittings attached to structure in locations of anticipated structural deformation must be frangibly attached such that the tank fittings and filler caps stay with the fuel tank to preclude tank ruptures after the frangible separation.'' The FAA agrees with the intent of this comment but finds that no change is necessary in the final rule. The FAA understands the commenter is suggesting that compliance methodology rather than objective substance be included in the rule. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(d)(1) and 29.952(d)(1) A commenter suggests that the FAA remove the second sentence from Secs. 27.952(d)(1) and 29.952(d)(1), which reads as follows: ``To prevent inadvertent separation or deformation, the load must be 10 times the normal service loads at the frangible or deformable attachment location.'' The FAA recognizes the large variance in industry design practice in calculating this particular ratio and in setting its specific value. Accordingly, the FAA agrees with the commenter, and the sentence is removed from the final rule. Therefore, these amendments are adopted as revised. Comments on Sections 27.952(e)(1) and 29.952(e)(1) A commenter states that the proposed Secs. 27.952(e)(1) and 29.952(e)(1) criteria largely repeat existing criteria. The commenter provides several specific examples of the perceived repetition. Another commenter asks why airframe mounted fuel filters are not acceptable in the engine compartment (i.e., fire zone) if engine mounted filters are acceptable. The FAA maintains that the proposed sections relate to a post-crash configured rotorcraft, that is radically different in terms of ignition sources, fuel leaks, and geometry than a pre-crash configured rotorcraft even though similarities may exist. Prior to these proposed amendments, parts 27 and 29 applied only to pre-crash (or flight) configured rotorcraft. Also, the proposed sections refer to the entire rotorcraft, not just specific zones, such as the pre-crash configured exhaust system regulations that were cited by the commenter in a particular example. However, because of this and other related comments, the FAA has decided to simplify the final rule by deleting the proposed subsections relating to compliance methodology and moving the term ``occupiable areas'' from proposed paragraphs e(4) to revised paragraphs (e). With respect to the comment concerning the use of airframe mounted fuel filters, the FAA agree that airframe mounted fuel filters, as well as engine mounted fuel filters inside the engine fire zone, are acceptable. Therefore, Secs. 27.952(e) and 29.952(e) are adopted as revised; and Secs. 27.952(e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (e)(4); 29.952(e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3) and (e)(4) are deleted. Comments on Sections 27.952(e)(4) and 29.952(e)(4) A commenter states that the existing rules are adequate to ensure sufficient PCF protection for fuel tanks located near occupiable areas. Therefore, from a practical view, sufficient separation cannot be economically achieved to the extent that it would have a significant impact on preventing a PCF. Thus, the commenter suggests that Secs. 27.952(e)(4) and 29.952(e)(4) be removed. In contrast, the FAA believes that it is practical to enhance PCF safety through design changes under proposed Secs. 27.952(e)(4) and 29.952(e)(4). For example, moving a fuel cell an additional \1/4\ or more inches aft of an occupied volume (within the maximum practicable extent of a given design envelope) could avoid a major, occupant-drenching, post-crash fuel spill (and potential PCF). This could be accomplished by simply adding \1/4\ or more inches of crushable, energy absorbing airframe distance between the occupied volume and the fuel cell. Such a design decision would not need to be considered under the current standards. Under these proposals it would have to be considered. As stated previously, Secs. 27.952(e)(4) and 29.952(e)(4) have been removed in order to simplify the final rule by deleting the compliance methodology. However, the requirement for separation of fuel tanks from occupiable areas is adopted in Secs. 27.952(e) and 29.952(e). Comments on Sections 27.952(e) and 29.952(e)(5) Three commenters correctly observe that Secs. 27.952(e)(5) and 29.952(e)(5) contained the incorrect reference, ``* * * (as defined by paragraph (b) of this section) * * *.'' The FAA agrees. As stated previously, Secs. 27.952(e)(5) and 29.952(e)(5) have been removed in order to simplify the final rule by deleting the compliance methodology. Comments on Sections 27.952(e)(6) and 29.952(e)(6) A commenter states that, under his interpretation, proposed Secs. 27.952(e)(6) and 29.952(e)(6) would require firewalls to retain their sealing ability under the load factors of Secs. 27.952(b)(1) and 29.952(b)(1)). The commenter believes that all large mass items, such as engines and cowlings, in the vicinity of the firewall would have to be restrained to prevent impact-induced firewall ruptures (i.e., preserve postimpact sealing ability). The commenter further believes that, based on other common design requirements such as fuel line penetrations of firewalls, the proposed amendment is impractical. Another commenter concurs with the proposed firewall survivable impact sealing retention requirement, but is concerned that a direct application of the proposed Secs. 27.952(b)(1) and 29.952(b)(1) load factors would produce a stiff, heavy firewall that, while able to retain sealing capability, would be heavy, uneconomical, and not have the intended crash-resistant design features. The commenters misinterpreted the intent of proposed Secs. 27.952(e)(6) and 29.952(e)(6). These proposals are based on similar MIL-STD-1290 requirements that have been used in design for many years. The FAA does not intend that a firewall designed to the load factors of Secs. 27.952(b)(1) and 29.952(b)(1) would retain its complete sealing ability under all post-crash threats. Thus, some leakage around typical vent and line penetrations and other small post- crash penetrations of the firewall in a survivable impact are acceptable. Unless an obvious, catastrophic hazard would be created in a survivable impact by atypical design features, restraint of the engines and cowling to prevent impact-induced firewall rupture was not intended. The FAA intends that the firewall retain its sealing ability in a survivable impact. The most significant problem addressed during the firewall design is deformation of the firewall induced by fuselage deformations under crash conditions. Concerning the second comment, the FAA does not agree that the proposed requirement will result in stiff, heavy firewalls. The requirement can be met by a firewall of a low stiffness, ductile design that can withstand the maximum vertical, lateral, and horizontal crushing displacements that are estimated to occur in a survivable impact. A low stiffness, ductile design can efficiently accommodate crash-induced deformations without shearing fuel or electrical lines and without rupturing or otherwise losing its gross sealing ability (i.e., creating a major ignition source or fire path). A displacement based firewall certification test should be conducted that shows that it is capable of performing its intended gross sealing function in a survivable impact. As stated previously, in order to simplify the final rule by deleting the compliance methodology, new Secs. 27.952(e) and 29.952(e) are adopted as revised, and proposed Secs. 27.952(e)(6) and 29.952(e)(6) are removed. Comments on Sections 27.952(e)(1)(iv) and 29.952(e)(1)(iv) A commenter suggests that Secs. 27.952(e)(1)(iv) and 29.952(e)(1)(iv) be modified to add the phrase ``* * * if it can be considered an ignition source,'' to the end of the last sentence. The commenter correctly states that not all hot surfaces should be considered as ignition sources. The FAA agrees. As stated previously, Secs. 27.952(e)(1)(iv) and 29.952(e)(1)(iv) have been removed; new Secs. 27.952(e) and 29.952(e) adequately incorporate the substance of this comment. Comments on Sections 27.952(e)(1)(v) A commenter notes that the word ``not'' was omitted between ``must'' and ``be'' in the second sentence of Secs. 27.952(e)(1)(v). The FAA agrees. The error was discovered after publication of the proposed rule, and a correction was published in the Federal Register on December 11, 1990 (55 FR 50931). Comments on Sections 27.952(f) and 29.952(f) A commenter recommends placing the detailed design criteria proposed by Secs. 27.952(f) and 29.952(f) in an advisory circular retaining only a shortened lead-in version of Secs. 27.952(f) and 29.952(f). Another commenter believes that Secs. 27.952(f) and 29.952(f), while acceptable in principle, duplicate many current FAR requirements and several other sections of 27.952 and 29.952. The commenter cited several examples of perceived duplication. The FAA agrees with the first commenter's proposal to place detailed design criteria in the advisory circular material. Therefore, proposed Secs. 27.952(f)(1) through 27.952(f)(9) and 29.952(f)(1) through 29.952(f)(9) are removed. Sections 27.952(f) and 29.952(f) are revised to replace the proposed, detailed design criteria specified after the phrase ``as follows:'' with a less detailed design criteria indicated by the phrase,'' * * * to be crash resistant * * *.'' Therefore, these amendments are adopted as revised. Additionally, this revision answers the second commenter's perceived duplicity concerns. Another commenter notes that the word `long' used in line 4 of Sec. 29.952(f)(5) should be `along'. The FAA agrees but no correction is necessary since this proposed paragraph was removed. Comments on Sections 27.952(g) and 29.952(g) A commenter suggests that requirements for impact and tear resistance be included in the amendments. The commenter correctly notes that the GASP report recommends specific impact and tear resistance values for civil rotorcraft based on MIL-T-27422B requirements. The FAA agrees with the comment in general but notes that proposed Secs. 27.952(g) and 29.952(g) objectively requires that crash-resistant fuel cells be tear and impact resistant. Further, it is intended that paragraphs 4.6.5.1 through 4.6.5.5 of MIL-T-27422B (modified for the civil environment) may be used to provide one acceptable method of properly assessing impact and tear resistance. Therefore, the amendments are adopted as proposed. Comments on Sections 27.952(h) and 29.952(h) Two commenters state that Secs. 27.952(h) and 29.952 (h) and (b) are redundant. The FAA agrees. Therefore, proposed Secs. 27.952(h) and 29.952(h) are deleted. Comments on Sections 27.975(b) and 29.975(a)(7) A commenter states full support for Secs. 27.975(b) and 29.975(a)(7), which propose that the venting system be designed to minimize spillage of fuel through the vents to an ignition source in the event of a rollover. However, the comment suggests deletion of the phrase ``* * * is shown to be extremely improbable * * *'' because, in his view, in practical terms, it would be impossible for an applicant to demonstrate such a low probability. The FAA agrees. The current term ``extremely remote'' rather than ``extremely improbable'' was intended. The FAA has determined that ``extremely remote'' is the correct term. The amendments are adopted as proposed except for replacing the word ``improbable'' with the word ``remote.'' Regulatory Evaluation Summary Executive Order 12866 dated September 30, 1993, directs Federal agencies to promulgate new regulations and maintain current regulations only if they are required by law, are necessary to interpret the law, or are made necessary by a ``compelling public need.'' The order also requires that agencies assess all costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and select the alternative that maximizes the net benefits and imposes the least burden on society. Additionally, the order requires agencies to submit a list of all rules, except those specifically exempted by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) because they respond to emergency situations or other narrowly defined exigencies, to determine if the rules constitute ``significant regulatory action.'' ``Significant regulatory action'' means an action that is likely to result in a rule that may (1) have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more or adversely affect in a material way the economy, a sector of the economy, productivity, competition, jobs, the environment, public health or safety, or state, local, or tribal governments or communities; (2) create a serious inconsistency or otherwise interfere with an action taken or planned by another agency; (3) materially alter the budgetary impact on entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan programs or the rights and obligations of recipients thereof; or (4) raise novel legal or policy issues arising out of legal mandates, the President's priorities, or the principles set forth in the Executive Order. ``Significant regulatory action'' is submitted to centralized regulatory review by OIRA. OIRA and the FAA have determined that this rule is not ``a significant regulatory action.'' However, a cost-benefit analysis, including evaluation of cost-reducing alternatives to this rule has been prepared. This analysis also contains the regulatory flexibility determination required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act and a Trade Impact Assessment. If more detailed economic information is desired, the reader may refer to the full evaluation contained in the docket. Benefits Studies have shown that a significant PCF hazards exist in rotorcraft operations. In a study of rotorcraft crashworthiness dynamics, the FAA found that burn fatalities and injuries account for about 14 percent of rotorcraft accident casualties and occur in about 20 percent of the accidents in which there are injuries. In a study comparing rotorcraft equipped with and without a CRFS, the U.S. Army found that average thermal casualty costs per survivable accident were 95.4 percent lower in CRFS-equipped rotorcraft, and that 50 percent of all rotorcraft accidents with a PCF are survivable prior to the onset of fire. An FAA review of NTSB rotorcraft accident data from 1983 through 1987 shows that 295 accidents occurred that involved a crash landing or collision with an object resulting in fatalities, serious injuries, or combinations of fatalities and injuries. Sixty-three of these accidents involved a PCF, in which about 77 percent of the occupants were fatally injured, as compared to 42 percent of the occupants in accidents not involving a PCF. In the 63 accidents involving a PCF, there were 113 fatalities, 27 serious injuries, 5 minor injuries, and one noninjury. The FAA estimates that the use of CRFS's would have altered these casualty distributions to approximately the following: 83 fatalities, 31 serious injuries, 24 minor injuries, and 8 noninjuries--a difference of 30 fewer fatalities with some of the fatalities being reduced to serious injuries (4) and minor injuries (19). In order to provide the public and government officials with a benchmark comparison of the expected safety benefits of rulemaking actions with estimated costs over an extended period of time, the FAA currently uses a minimum value of $1.5 million to statistically represent an avoided fatality. Serious injuries are estimated to have an average cost of $640,000, and minor injuries are estimated to have an average cost of $2,300. Applying these values to the calculated differences yields benefits of about $42 million [(30 fewer fatalities x $1.5 million) - (4 more serious injuries x $640,000) - (19 more minor injuries x $2,300)]. The average benefit per accident involving a PCF is approximately $670,000. Accounting for parts 27 and 29 separately, the average benefits are approximately $464,000 per part 27 rotorcraft accident involving a PCF and approximately $1,638,000 per part 29 rotorcraft accident involving a PCF. During the 5-year study period, an average of 5,450 part 27 rotorcraft and an average of 1,150 part 29 rotorcraft were in operation in the United States. During this period, the annual probability of a part 27 rotorcraft being involved in a serious survivable accident with a PCF is estimated to be 1.903 x 10-3 ((52 accidents / 5,450 part 27 rotorcraft) / 5 years). The corresponding probability for part 29 rotorcraft is 1.913 x 10-3 ((11 accidents / 1,150 part 29 rotorcraft) / 5 years). Multiplying these probabilities by an estimated benefits per accident with a PCF yields annual benefits of $885 per part 27 rotorcraft and $3,134 per part 29 rotorcraft. Assuming 15-year operating lives, these benefits when discounted equate to $3,103 per part 27 rotorcraft and $10,985 per part 29 rotorcraft. Costs This rule will increase costs for both rotorcraft manufacturers and operators. Manufacturers will incur increased development, certification, and production costs; and operators (in addition to absorbing these costs in higher rotorcraft acquisition costs) will incur increased operating costs due to the additional weight of the fuel system. The FAA estimates the development and certification costs per new rotorcraft certification will be $36,000. Most of these costs are for testing, analysis, and documentation. The primary testing required by the rule is a test of each fuel tank to show no loss of fuel under specified crash conditions. This can be accomplished by a simple, inexpensive drop test. There will be increased production costs associated with fuel tanks, fittings, and flexible fuel lines. The incremental cost of a fuel tank meeting the requirements of the rule is estimated to be $30 per gallon of tank capacity. Part 27 rotorcraft are assumed to have 50- gallon tanks that will cost $1,500 more as a result of this rule; part 29 rotorcraft are assumed to have 200-gallon tanks costing $6,000 more. The FAA estimates that the cost per frangible, self-sealing fitting is $60; that a typical part 27 rotorcraft will require 8 fittings, totaling $480; and that a typical part 29 rotorcraft will require 10 fittings, totaling $600. Flexible fuel line sections are expected to add about $100 to the cost of a fuel system for a part 27 rotorcraft and about $150 for a part 29 rotorcraft. The estimated total incremental production costs are $2,080 per part 27 rotorcraft and $6,750 per part 29 rotorcraft. The FAA estimates that the rule will increase the weight of a part 27 rotorcraft by 9.5 pounds and a part 29 rotorcraft by 33 pounds, and that each extra pound of weight increases average annual fuel consumption by 3.8 gallons per part 27 rotorcraft and 6.2 gallons per part 29 rotorcraft. Applying fuel prices of $1.87 per gallon for part 27 rotorcraft and $1.78 for part 29 rotorcraft, the estimated increase in average annual operating costs is $68 ($1.87 x 3.8 gals. x 9.5 lbs.) per part 27 rotorcraft and $364 ($1.78 x 6.2 gals. x 33 lbs.) per part 29 rotorcraft. Assuming 15 years operating lives, the total incremental development, certification, production, and operating costs when discounted are $1,426 per part 27 rotorcraft and $4,617 per part 29 rotorcraft. Benefit/Costs Comparison Benefits exceed costs for both parts 27 and 29 rotorcraft. The net present value (discounted benefits minus discounted costs) is $1,677 per part 27 rotorcraft and $6,368 per part 29 rotorcraft. The rule will be cost beneficial even if it is only 50 percent effective in eliminating PCF fatalities and injuries. Regulatory Flexibility Determination The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) of 1980 was enacted by Congress to ensure that small entities are not unnecessarily or disproportionately burdened by Government regulations. The RFA requires a Regulatory Flexibility Analysis if a rule is expected to have a ``significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.'' FAA Order 2100.14A, Regulatory Flexibility Criteria and Guidance, prescribes standards for complying with RFA review requirements in FAA rulemaking actions. The FAA does not expect the rule to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small manufacturers or operators. Trade Impact Assessment The rule will have no impact on trade for either U.S. firms doing business in foreign markets or foreign firms doing business in the United States. In the United States, foreign manufacturers must meet U.S. requirements, and thus will gain no competitive advantage. In foreign countries, U.S. manufacturers are not bound by parts 27 and 29 requirements and can choose whether or not to implement the provisions of this rule on the basis of competitive and other considerations. Also, the Joint Airworthiness Authority (JAA) and Transport Canada are both in the process of adopting this rule. Federalism Implications The regulations herein do not have substantial direct effects 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. Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this amendment does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment. Conclusion For the reasons discussed in the preamble and based on the findings in the Regulatory Flexibility Determination and the Trade Impact Assessment, the FAA has determined that these amendments are not major under Executive Order 12866. In addition, the FAA certifies that these amendments do not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. These amendments are considered nonsignificant under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979). A regulatory evaluation of the amendments, including a Regulatory Determination and Trade Impact Analysis, has been placed in the docket. A copy may be obtained by contacting the Rules Docket (AGC-10), Docket No. 26392, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, D.C. 25890 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Parts 27 and 29 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Rotorcraft, Safety. The Amendment Accordingly, the Federal Aviation Administration amends 14 CFR pats 27 and 29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations as follows: PART 27--AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: NORMAL CATEGORY ROTORCRAFT 1. The authority citation for part 27 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 1344, 1354(a), 1355, 1421, 1423, 1425, 1428, 1429, 1430; and 49 U.S.C. 106(g). 2. Section 27.561 is amended by adding a new paragraph (d) to read as follows: Sec. 27.561 General. * * * * * (d) Any fuselage structure in the area of internal fuel tanks below the passenger floor level must be designed to resist the following ultimate inertial factors and loads and to protect the fuel tanks from rupture when those loads are applied to that area: (i) Upward--1.5g. (ii) Forward--4.0g. (iii) Sideward--2.0g. (iv) Downward--4.0g. 3. A new Sec. 27.952 is added to read as follows: Sec. 27.952 Fuel system crash resistance. Unless other means acceptable to the Administrator are employed to minimize the hazard of fuel fires to occupants following an otherwise survivable impact (crash landing), the fuel systems must incorporate the design features of this section. These systems must be shown to be capable of sustaining the static and dynamic deceleration loads of this section, considered as ultimate loads acting alone, measured at the system component's center of gravity, without structural damage to system components, fuel tanks, or their attachments that would leak fuel to an ignition source. (a) Drop test requirements. Each tank, or the most critical tank, must be drop-tested as follows: (1) The drop height must be at least 50 feet. (2) The drop impact surface must be nondeforming. (3) The tank must be filled with water to 80 percent of the normal, full capacity. (4) The tank must be enclosed in a surrounding structure representative of the installation unless it can be established that the surrounding structure is free of projections or other design features likely to contribute to rupture of the tank. (5) The tank must drop freely and impact in a horizontal position10 deg.. (6) After the drop test, there must be no leakage. (b) Fuel tank load factors. Except for fuel tanks located so that tank rupture with fuel release to either significant ignition sources, such as engines, heaters, and auxiliary power units, or occupants is extremely remote, each fuel tank must be designed and installed to retain its contents under the following ultimate inertial load factors, acting alone. (1) For fuel tanks in the cabin: (i) Upward--4g. (ii) Forward--16g. (iii) Sideward--8g. (iv) Downward--20g. (2) For fuel tanks located above or behind the crew or passenger compartment that, if loosened, could injure an occupant in an emergency landing: (i) Upward--1.5g. (ii) Forward--8g. (iii) Sideward--2g. (iv) Downward--4g. (3) For fuel tanks in other areas: (i) Upward--1.5g. (ii) Forward--4g. (iii) Sideward--2g. (iv) Downward--4g. (c) Fuel line self-sealing breakaway couplings. Self-sealing breakaway couplings must be installed unless hazardous relative motion of fuel system components to each other or to local rotorcraft structure is demonstrated to be extremely improbable or unless other means are provided. The couplings or equivalent devices must be installed at all fuel tank-to-fuel line connections, tank-to-tank interconnects, and at other points in the fuel system where local structural deformation could lead to the release of fuel. (1) The design and construction of self-sealing breakaway couplings must incorporate the following design features: (i) The load necessary to separate a breakaway coupling must be between 25 to 50 percent of the minimum ultimate failure load (ultimate strength) of the weakest component in the fluid-carrying line. The separation load must in no case be less than 300 pounds, regardless of the size of the fluid line. (ii) A breakaway coupling must separate whenever its ultimate load (as defined in paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section) is applied in the failure modes most likely to occur. (iii) All breakaway couplings must incorporate design provisions to visually ascertain that the coupling is locked together (leak-free) and is open during normal installation and service. (iv) All breakaway couplings must incorporate design provisions to prevent uncoupling or unintended closing due to operational shocks, vibrations, or accelerations. (v) No breakaway coupling design may allow the release of fuel once the coupling has performed its intended function. (2) All individual breakaway couplings, coupling fuel feed systems, or equivalent means must be designed, tested, installed, and maintained so that inadvertent fuel shutoff in flight is improbable in accordance with Sec. 27.955(a) and must comply with the fatigue evaluation requirements of Sec. 27.571 without leaking. (3) Alternate, equivalent means to the use of breakaway couplings must not create a survivable impact-induced load on the fuel line to which it is installed greater than 25 to 50 percent of the ultimate load (strength) of the weakest component in the line and must comply with the fatigue requirements of Sec. 27.571 without leaking. (d) Frangible or deformable structural attachments. Unless hazardous relative motion of fuel tanks and fuel system components to local rotorcraft structure is demonstrated to be extremely improbable in an otherwise survivable impact, frangible or locally deformable attachments of fuel tanks and fuel system components to local rotorcraft structure must be used. The attachment of fuel tanks and fuel system components to local rotorcraft structure, whether frangible or locally deformable, must be designed such that its separation or relative local deformation will occur without rupture or local tear-out of the fuel tank or fuel system components that will cause fuel leakage. The ultimate strength of frangible or deformable attachments must be as follows: (1) The load required to separate a frangible attachment from its support structure, or deform a locally deformable attachment relative to its support structure, must be between 25 and 50 percent of the minimum ultimate load (ultimate strength) of the weakest component in the attached system. In no case may the load be less than 300 pounds. (2) A frangible or locally deformable attachment must separate or locally deform as intended whenever its ultimate load (as defined in paragraph (d)(1) of this section) is applied in the modes most likely to occur. (3) All frangible or locally deformable attachments must comply with the fatigue requirements of Sec. 27.571. (e) Separation of fuel and ignition sources. To provide maximum crash resistance, fuel must be located as far as practicable from all occupiable areas and from all potential ignition sources. (f) Other basic mechanical design criteria. Fuel tanks, fuel lines, electrical wires, and electrical devices must be designed, constructed, and installed, as far as practicable, to be crash resistant. (g) Rigid or semirigid fuel tanks. Rigid or semirigid fuel tank or bladder walls must be impact and tear resistant. 4. Section 27.963 is amended by revising paragraph (f) and by adding new paragraphs (g) and (h) to read as follows: Sec. 27.963 Fuel tanks: general. * * * * * (f) Each fuel tank installed in personnel compartments must be isolated by fume-proof and fuel-proof enclosures that are drained and vented to the exterior of the rotorcraft. The design and construction of the enclosures must provide necessary protection for the tank, must be crash resistant during a survivable impact in accordance with Sec. 27.952, and must be adequate to withstand loads and abrasions to be expected in personnel compartments. (g) Each flexible fuel tank bladder or liner must be approved or shown to be suitable for the particular application and must be puncture resistant. Puncture resistance must be shown by meeting the TSO-C80, paragraph 16.0, requirements using a minimum puncture force of 370 pounds. (h) Each integral fuel tank must have provisions for inspection and repair of its interior. 5. A new Sec. 27.967 is added to read as follows: Sec. 27.967 Fuel tank installation. (a) Each fuel tank must be supported so that tank loads are not concentrated on unsupported tank surfaces. In addition-- (1) There must be pads, if necessary, to prevent chafing between each tank and its supports; (2) The padding must be nonabsorbent or treated to prevent the absorption of fuel; (3) If flexible tank liners are used, they must be supported so that it is not necessary for them to withstand fluid loads; and (4) Each interior surface of tank compartments must be smooth and free of projections that could cause wear of the liner unless-- (i) There are means for protection of the liner at those points; or (ii) The construction of the liner itself provides such protection. (b) Any spaces adjacent to tank surfaces must be adequately ventilated to avoid accumulation of fuel or fumes in those spaces due to minor leakage. If the tank is in a sealed compartment, ventilation may be limited to drain holes that prevent clogging and excessive pressure resulting from altitude changes. If flexible tank liners are installed, the venting arrangement for the spaces between the liner and its container must maintain the proper relationship to tank vent pressures for any expected flight condition. (c) The location of each tank must meet the requirements of Sec. 27.1185 (a) and (c). (d) No rotorcraft skin immediately adjacent to a major air outlet from the engine compartment may act as the wall of the integral tank. 6. Section 27.973 is revised to read as follows: Sec. 27.973 Fuel tank filler connection. (a) Each fuel tank filler connection must prevent the entrance of fuel into any part of the rotorcraft other than the tank itself during normal operations and must be crash resistant during a survivable impact in accordance with Sec. 27.952(c). In addition-- (1) Each filler must be marked as prescribed in Sec. 27.1557(c)(1); (2) Each recessed filler connection that can retain any appreciable quantity of fuel must have a drain that discharges clear of the entire rotorcraft; and (3) Each filler cap must provide a fuel-tight seal under the fluid pressure expected in normal operation and in a survivable impact. (b) Each filler cap or filler cap cover must warn when the cap is not fully locked or seated on the filler connection. 7. Section 27.975 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as follows: Sec. 27.975 Fuel tank vents. * * * * * (b) The venting system must be designed to minimize spillage of fuel through the vents to an ignition source in the event of a rollover during landing, ground operation, or a survivable impact, unless a rollover is shown to be extremely remote. PART 29--AIRWORTHINESS STANDARDS: TRANSPORT CATEGORY ROTORCRAFT 8. The authority citation for part 29 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 1344, 1354(a), 1355, 1421, 1423, 1424, 1425, 1428, 1429, 1430; and 49 U.S.C. 106(g). 9. A new Sec. 29.952 is added to read as follows: Sec. 29.952 Fuel system crash resistance. Unless other means acceptable to the Administrator are employed to minimize the hazard of fuel fires to occupants following an otherwise survivable impact (crash landing), the fuel systems must incorporate the design features of this section. These systems must be shown to be capable of sustaining the static and dynamic deceleration loads of this section, considered as ultimate loads acting alone, measured at the system component's center of gravity without structural damage to the system components, fuel tanks, or their attachments that would leak fuel to an ignition source. (a) Drop test requirements. Each tank, or the most critical tank, must be drop-tested as follows: (1) The drop height must be at least 50 feet. (2) The drop impact surface must be nondeforming. (3) The tanks must be filled with water to 80 percent of the normal, full capacity. (4) The tank must be enclosed in a surrounding structure representative of the installation unless it can be established that the surrounding structure is free of projections or other design features likely to contribute to rupture of the tank. (5) The tank must drop freely and impact in a horizontal position 10 deg.. (6) After the drop test, there must be no leakage. (b) Fuel tank load factors. Except for fuel tanks located so that tank rupture with fuel release to either significant ignition sources, such as engines, heaters, and auxiliary power units, or occupants is extremely remote, each fuel tank must be designed and installed to retain its contents under the following ultimate inertial load factors, acting alone. (1) For fuel tanks in the cabin: (i) Upward--4g. (ii) Forward--16g. (iii) Sideward--8g. (iv) Downward--20g. (2) For fuel tanks located above or behind the crew or passenger compartment that, if loosened, could injure an occupant in an emergency landing: (i) Upward--1.5g. (ii) Forward--8g. (iii) Sideward--2g. (iv) Downward--4g. (3) For fuel tanks in other areas: (i) Upward--1.5g. (ii) Forward--4g. (iii) Sideward--2g. (iv) Downward--4g. (c) Fuel line self-sealing breakaway couplings. Self-sealing breakaway couplings must be installed unless hazardous relative motion of fuel system components to each other or to local rotorcraft structure is demonstrated to be extremely improbable or unless other means are provided. The couplings or equivalent devices must be installed at all fuel tank-to-fuel line connections, tank-to-tank interconnects, and at other points in the fuel system where local structural deformation could lead to the release of fuel. (1) The design and construction of self-sealing breakaway couplings must incorporate the following design features: (i) The load necessary to separate a breakaway coupling must be between 25 to 50 percent of the minimum ultimate failure load (ultimate strength) of the weakest component in the fluid-carrying line. The separation load must in no case be less than 300 pounds, regardless of the size of the fluid line. (ii) A breakaway coupling must separate whenever its ultimate load (as defined in paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section) is applied in the failure modes most likely to occur. (iii) All breakaway couplings must incorporate design provisions to visually ascertain that the coupling is locked together (leak-free) and is open during normal installation and service. (iv) All breakaway couplings must incorporate design provisions to prevent uncoupling or unintended closing due to operational shocks, vibrations, or accelerations. (v) No breakaway coupling design may allow the release of fuel once the coupling has performed its intended function. (2) All individual breakaway couplings, coupling fuel feed systems, or equivalent means must be designed, tested, installed, and maintained so inadvertent fuel shutoff in flight is improbable in accordance with Sec. 29.955(a) and must comply with the fatigue evaluation requirements of Sec. 29.571 without leaking. (3) Alternate, equivalent means to the use of breakaway couplings must not create a survivable impact-induced load on the fuel line to which it is installed greater than 25 to 50 percent of the ultimate load (strength) of the weakest component in the line and must comply with the fatigue requirements of Sec. 29.571 without leaking. (d) Frangible or deformable structural attachments. Unless hazardous relative motion of fuel tanks and fuel system components to local rotorcraft structure is demonstrated to be extremely improbable in an otherwise survivable impact, frangible or locally deformable attachments of fuel tanks and fuel system components to local rotorcraft structure must be used. The attachment of fuel tanks and fuel system components to local rotorcraft structure, whether frangible or locally deformable, must be designed such that its separation or relative local deformation will occur without rupture or local tear-out of the fuel tank or fuel system component that will cause fuel leakage. The ultimate strength of frangible or deformable attachments must be as follows: (1) The load required to separate a frangible attachment from its support structure, or deform a locally deformable attachment relative to its support structure, must be between 25 and 50 percent of the minimum ultimate load (ultimate strength) of the weakest component in the attached system. In no case may the load be less than 300 pounds. (2) A frangible or locally deformable attachment must separate or locally deform as intended whenever its ultimate load (as defined in paragraph (d)(1) of this section) is applied in the modes most likely to occur. (3) All frangible or locally deformable attachments must comply with the fatigue requirements of Sec. 29.571. (e) Separation of fuel and ignition sources. To provide maximum crash resistance, fuel must be located as far as practicable from all occupiable areas and from all potential ignition sources. (f) Other basic mechanical design criteria. Fuel tanks, fuel lines, electrical wires, and electrical devices must be designed, constructed, and installed, as far as practicable, to be crash resistant. (g) Rigid or semirigid fuel tanks. Rigid or semirigid fuel tank or bladder walls must be impact and tear resistant. 10. Section 29.963 is amended by removing paragraph (b); by redesignating paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) as (b), (c), and (d) respectively; by revising redesignated paragraph (b); and by adding a new paragraph (e) to read as follows: Sec. 29.963 Fuel tanks: general. * * * * * (b) Each flexible fuel tank bladder or liner must be approved or shown to be suitable for the particular application and must be puncture resistant. Puncture resistance must be shown by meeting the TSO-C80, paragraph 16.0, requirements using a minimum puncture force of 370 pounds. * * * * * (e) Each fuel tank installed in personnel compartments must be isolated by fume-proof and fuel-proof enclosures that are drained and vented to the exterior of the rotorcraft. The design and construction of the enclosures must provide necessary protection for the tank, must be crash resistant during a survivable impact in accordance with Sec. 29.952, and must be adequate to withstand loads and abrasions to be expected in personnel compartments. Sec. 29.967 [Amended] 11. Section 29.967 is amended by removing paragraph (e). 12. Section 29.973 is revised to read as follows: Sec. 29.973 Fuel tank filler connection. (a) Each fuel tank filler connection must prevent the entrance of fuel into any part of the rotorcraft other than the tank itself during normal operations and must be crash resistant during a survivable impact in accordance with Sec. 29.952(c). In addition-- (1) Each filler must be marked as prescribed in Sec. 29.1557(c)(1); (2) Each recessed filler connection that can retain any appreciable quantity of fuel must have a drain that discharges clear of the entire rotorcraft; and (3) Each filler cap must provide a fuel-tight seal under the fluid pressure expected in normal operation and in a survivable impact. (b) Each filler cap or filler cap cover must warn when the cap is not fully locked or seated on the filler connection. 13. Section 29.975 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(7) to read as follows: Sec. 29.975 Fuel tank vents and carburetor vapor vents. (a) * * * (7) The venting system must be designed to minimize spillage of fuel through the vents to an ignition source in the event of a rollover during landing, ground operations, or a survivable impact, unless a rollover is shown to be extremely remote. * * * * * Issued in Washington, D.C., on September 26, 1994. David R. Hinson, Administrator. [FR Doc. 94-24218 Filed 9-30-94; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-M