[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 232 (Tuesday, December 2, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 73165-73168]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-28347]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2008-1251; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-61-AD; 
Amendment 39-15756; AD 2008-22-53]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc. Model MD900 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: This document supersedes AD 2008-18-52 and publishes in the 
Federal Register an amendment adopting Emergency Airworthiness 
Directive (AD) 2008-22-53 which was sent previously to all known U.S. 
owners and operators of MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Model MD900 
helicopters by individual letters. This AD requires turning ON both 
Vertical Stabilizer Control System (VSCS) switches and turning OFF the 
autopilot (AP/SAS) switch; pulling certain AP/SAS circuit breakers; 
installing a placard near the AP/SAS master switch; installing an 
airspeed limitation placard on the instrument panel; and making changes 
to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). This AD is prompted by 4 
occurrences in which the left VSCS adapter tubes failed on the MD900 
helicopters and the vertical stabilizer became uncontrollable, 
resulting in reduced yaw control of the helicopter. There were no 
injuries, but in one occurrence, due to the high speed quick yaw, the 
helicopter lost a window and a door. The actions specified by this AD 
are intended to prevent loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

DATES: Effective December 17, 2008, to all persons except those persons 
to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2008-22-53, 
issued on October 23, 2008, which contained the requirements of this 
amendment.
    Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or 
before February 2, 2009.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on 
this AD:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    You may get the service information identified in this AD from MD 
Helicopters Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. McDowell 
Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, Arizona 85215-9734, telephone 1-800-388-
3378, fax 480-346-6813, or on the Web at http://www.mdhelicopters.com.
    Examining the Docket: You may examine the docket that contains the 
AD, any comments, and other information on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov, or in person at the Docket Operations office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is 
located in Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the West Building at the 
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be 
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric D. Schrieber, FAA, Los Angeles 
Aircraft Certification Office, Aviation Safety Engineer, Airframe 
Branch, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712, telephone 
562-627-5348, fax 562-627-5210.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On August 20, 2008, we issued Emergency AD 
2008-18-51 for 500N, 600N, and MD900 helicopters. Emergency AD 2008-18-
51 was prompted by reports that 2 MD900 helicopters experienced failed 
VSCS adapter tubes. In one case, the helicopter experienced an 
uncommanded yaw, resulting in loss of a window and a door. The 
Emergency AD required several actions related to the Yaw Stability 
Augmentation System (YSAS) for the Model 500N and 600N

[[Page 73166]]

helicopters and to the VSCS for the Model MD900 helicopters.
    After we issued Emergency AD 2008-18-51, we discovered that pulling 
the circuit breaker per the Emergency AD caused impaired directional 
control, which could result in loss of control of the helicopter. 
Therefore, on August 27, 2008, we issued superseding Emergency AD 2008-
18-52, which requires, for Model 500N, 600N and MD900 helicopters, 
turning OFF the VSCS or YSAS switches instead of pulling the circuit 
breakers and installing placards that limit airspeed to 100 KIAS or 
VNE, whichever is less. For the Model MD900 helicopters, 
limiting flight to VFR, prohibiting use of the autopilot, and making 
changes to the Emergency Procedures and Airworthiness (sic) Limitations 
sections of the RFM are also required. For all of the helicopter 
models, Emergency AD 2008-18-52 requires, within 45 days, terminating 
action by replacing the adapter tube with an airworthy adapter tube 
that has a date stamp of August 15, 2008 or later, and then removing 
the placards, removing the AD limitation changes from the RFM, and 
returning all switches and circuit breakers to their normal positions.
    Since the issuance of Emergency AD 2008-18-52, we have had 
additional occurrences of failed adapter tubes on the MD900 
helicopters. The replacement adapter tube that was terminating action 
for the requirements of Emergency AD 2008-18-52 failed on 2 of the 
MD900 helicopters. Furthermore, adapter tubes without a production date 
code stamp remain a safety concern on the 500N and 600N helicopters 
because they may not conform to the FAA-approved design. Therefore, we 
separated the AD actions and issued 2 superseding Emergency ADs; 2008-
22-52 for the 500N and 600N helicopters, and 2008-22-53 for the MD900 
helicopters.
    Emergency AD 2008-22-53 applies to the MD900 helicopters and 
continues to require the same actions as Emergency AD 2008-18-52; 
however, we made minor editorial changes and other changes as follows:
     We do not include any serial numbers in the applicability 
because the unsafe condition can occur on any helicopter with the 
affected adapter tube installed.
     We require both VSCS switches to be turned ON to reduce 
pilot workload under normal flight conditions and to help control the 
helicopter in the event of an adapter tube failure until the helicopter 
is on final approach.
     We do not provide a terminating action because the cause 
of the failures is still being investigated.
    We have reviewed MDHI Service Bulletin (SB) SB900-110, dated 
October 17, 2008. The SB specifies the following:
     Making a placard that states ``AIRSPEED LIMIT 100 KIAS OR 
VNE, WHICHEVER IS LESS. VMC FLIGHT ONLY, AUTOPILOT OFF.''
     Installing a placard on the instrument panel in view of 
the pilot.
     Making a record in the compliance section of the 
Rotorcraft Log Book that the SB has been completed.
     Operating the helicopter as specified in the applicable 
Rotorcraft Flight Manual Airspeed Limitation Section for helicopter 
operation.
    The SB also includes the following Notes:
     Stronger replacement tube adapters with a new part number 
are in the FAA approval process. Owners and operators will be notified 
when the new adapter tubes are available by a revision to the service 
bulletin.
     If there is an anti-torque system malfunction, de-energize 
the VSCS on final approach to a run on landing. Refer to Rotorcraft 
Flight Manual Emergency Procedures for Anti-torque Failure Complete 
Loss of Thrust and Fixed Thruster Setting.
     Do an inspection before and after each flight to make sure 
vertical stabilizers are in the correct position and control linkages 
are attached. To check control linkages, apply light pressure with your 
hand to the trailing edge of left and right vertical stabilizer in the 
inboard and outboard direction. No more than 0.125 in. (3.175 mm) 
movement permitted.
    This AD differs from the SB in that it does not require, before and 
after each flight, an inspection of the vertical stabilizer and control 
linkages because we have determined that limiting the airspeed to 100 
KIAS or VNE, whichever is less, will allow the continued 
safe operation of the helicopter in the event of an in-flight failure 
of the adapter tube. Also, this AD differs from the SB in that we 
require flight under VFR instead of VMC because the master minimum 
equipment list does not allow dispatch of the helicopter under IFR with 
an inoperative autopilot.
    This AD is an interim action that is intended to provide the 
continued safe operation of the helicopter in the event of an in-flight 
failure of the adapter tube. MDHI is currently attempting to determine 
the root cause of the adapter tube failures and develop final 
corrective action. We anticipate additional rulemaking once MDHI 
determines the cause of the adapter tube failures and develops an 
acceptable corrective action or terminating action for the requirements 
of this AD.
    Since the unsafe condition described is likely to exist or develop 
on other MDHI Model MD900 helicopters of the same type design, we 
issued superseding Emergency AD 2008-22-53 to prevent loss of yaw 
control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. The Emergency 
AD requires the following before further flight:
     Turning ON both VSCS switches and turning OFF the 
autopilot (AP/SAS) switch after centering the trim actuators.
     Pulling and installing cable ties around certain AP/SAS 
circuit breakers.
     Installing a placard next to the AP/SAS master switch 
alerting the pilot that the autopilot has been deactivated.
     Installing a placard on the instrument panel as close as 
practicable to the airspeed indicator that states:

``AIRSPEED LIMIT 100 KIAS or VNE, WHICHEVER IS LESS. VFR 
FLIGHT ONLY, AUTOPILOT OFF.''

     Making pen and ink changes or inserting a copy of this AD 
into the limitations section of the RFM to revise the limitations as 
follows: ``VNE is limited to 100 KIAS or less as determined 
by referring to the airspeed VNE placard already installed 
on the helicopter. VFR Flight Only, Autopilot Off.''
     Making pen and ink changes or inserting a copy of this AD 
into the limitations section of the RFM to revise the emergency 
procedures as follows: ``If you experience an anti-torque system 
malfunction, turn both VSCS switches to OFF during final approach for a 
run-on landing.''
    The short compliance time involved is required because the 
previously described critical unsafe condition can adversely affect the 
controllability of the helicopter. Therefore, the actions described 
previously are required before further flight, and this AD must be 
issued immediately.
    Since it was found that immediate corrective action was required, 
notice and opportunity for prior public comment thereon were 
impracticable and contrary to the public interest, and good cause 
existed to make the AD effective immediately by individual letters 
issued on October 23, 2008 to all known U.S. owners and operators of 
MDHI Model MD900 helicopters. These conditions still exist, and the AD 
is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to 14 CFR 
39.13 to make it effective to all persons.
    We estimate that this AD will affect 43 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. The

[[Page 73167]]

required actions will take about 0.2 work hour per helicopter, at an 
average labor rate of $80 per work hour. Parts cost are negligible. 
Based on these figures we estimate the total cost impact of the AD on 
U.S. operators to be about $688. However, MDHI states in their service 
information that costs of .2 hours of labor will be covered under labor 
warranty. Assuming operators take advantage of this credit, we estimate 
that this AD will have no cost impact on U.S. operators.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect 
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for 
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any written data, 
views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2008-1251; Directorate 
Identifier 2008-SW-61-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of the AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend the AD in light of 
those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact 
with FAA personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of our 
docket Web site, you can find and read the comments to any of our 
dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment. You 
may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal 
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78).

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this AD will not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a 
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between 
the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the 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); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this AD. See the AD docket to examine the economic evaluation.

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.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of 
the Federal Aviation Regulations (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. Section 39.13 is amended by adding a new airworthiness directive to 
read as follows:

2008-22-53 MD Helicopters, Inc.: Amendment 39-15756. Docket No. FAA-
2008-1251; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-61-AD. Supersedes 
Emergency AD 2008-18-52, Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-52-AD.

    Applicability: Model MD900 helicopters with a Vertical 
Stabilizer Control System (VSCS) adapter tube, part number 500N7218-
1, installed, certificated in any category.
    Compliance: Required before further flight, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter, do the following:
    (a) Turn ON both VSCS switches.
    (b) If installed, de-energize the autopilot (AP/SAS) as follows:
    (1) Determine if the AP/SAS trim actuators are centered. If the 
AP/SAS trim actuators are not centered, center them.
    (2) After the AP/SAS trim actuators are centered:
    (i) Turn the AP/SAS MSTR switch to the OFF position.
    (ii) Pull the following AP circuit breakers located on the A601 
Essential Bus Circuit Breaker Panel, mounted in the cockpit console, 
and install a plastic cable tie on each circuit breaker to prevent 
accidental energizing of the circuit:
    (A) AP/SAS CMPTR (CB28),
    (B) AP/SAS DISC (CB29), and
    (C) AP/SAS ACCEL (CB30).
    (3) Install a placard next to the AP Mode Select panel that 
contains the AP/SAS MSTR switch stating ``AP/SAS DEACTIVATED.''
    (c) Install a placard on the instrument panel as close as 
practicable to the airspeed indicator that states:

``AIRSPEED LIMIT 100 KIAS or VNE, WHICHEVER IS LESS. VFR 
FLIGHT ONLY, AUTOPILOT OFF.''

    (d) Make pen and ink changes or insert a copy of this AD into 
the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM) to 
revise the limitations as follows: ``VNE is limited to 
100 KIAS or less as determined by referring to the airspeed 
VNE placard already installed on the helicopter. VFR 
Flight Only, Autopilot OFF.''
    (e) Make pen and ink changes or insert a copy of this AD into 
the limitations section of the RFM to revise the emergency 
procedures as follows: ``If you experience an anti-torque system 
malfunction, turn both VSCS switches to OFF during final approach 
for a run-on landing.''

    Note: MDHI Service Bulletin SB900N-110, dated October 17, 2008, 
pertains to the subject of this AD.

    (f) To request a different method of compliance or a different 
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. 
Contact the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
ATTN: Eric D. Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Airframe Branch, 
3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712, telephone 562-627-
5348, fax 562-627-5210, for information about previously approved 
alternative methods of compliance.
    (g) Copies of the applicable service information may be obtained 
from MD Helicopters Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. 
McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, Arizona 85215-9734, telephone 1-
800-388-3378, fax 480-346-6813, or on the Web at http://www.mdhelicopters.com.
    (h) This amendment becomes effective on December 17, 2008, to 
all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately 
effective by Emergency AD 2008-22-53, issued October 23, 2008, which 
contained the requirements of this amendment.


[[Page 73168]]


    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on November 19, 2008.
Scott A. Horn,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
 [FR Doc. E8-28347 Filed 12-1-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P