[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 55 (Friday, March 20, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 15933-15935]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-05848]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2019-0882; Product Identifier 2018-SW-113-AD; Amendment 
39-19873; AD 2020-05-23]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the attachment screws of each 
main gearbox (MGB) suspension bar rear attachment fitting, and 
depending on the outcome, applying a sealing compound, performing 
further inspections, and replacing affected parts. This AD was prompted 
by reports of an elongated attachment screw and loss of tightening 
torque of the nut. The actions of this AD are intended to address an 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective April 24, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of April 24, 2020.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052; telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You 
may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, 
Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2019-
0882.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2019-0882; or in person at Docket 
Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) 
(EASA) AD, any service information that is

[[Page 15934]]

incorporated by reference, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations is Docket 
Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, 
West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; 
email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    On November 8, 2019, at 84 FR 60349, the Federal Register published 
the FAA's notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 
14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters 
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters, delivered to 
the first owner or customer before September 1, 2018, and with 
attachment screws part number (P/N) 330A22013520 installed with MGB 
right hand (RH) side rear attachment fitting P/N 330A22270207 and left 
hand (LH) side rear attachment fitting P/N 330A22270206 of the MGB 
suspension bars. The NPRM proposed to require inspecting each screw on 
the RH and LH rear attachment by identifying the number of threads 
``F'' that extend beyond the nut. If there are 2 or less threads on 
each affected part, or if there are 3 or more threads on any affected 
part with a thread height less than 5 mm (0.196 in), the NPRM proposed 
to require applying a sealing compound on the nuts, and convex and 
concave washers. If there are 3 or more threads on any affected part 
with a thread height of 5 mm (0.196 in) or more, the NPRM proposed to 
require removing the nut and inspecting the convex and concave washers 
for bent parts and corrosion. If any washers are bent or corroded, the 
NPRM proposed to require removing the washers from service. If the 
length ``L'' measurement of any attachment screw is greater than 59.3 
mm (2.334 in), the NPRM proposed to require replacing the attachment 
fitting and the set of four screws. The proposed requirements were 
intended to prevent structural failure of an MGB attachment fitting, 
detachment of an MGB suspension bar, and subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter.
    The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2018-0282, dated December 19, 
2018 (EASA AD 2018-0282), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent 
for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe 
condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and 
AS332L1 helicopters. EASA advises that occurrences were reported of 
elongated attachment screws and loss of tightening torque of the nut 
installed on the affected part. EASA also advises that an investigation 
is ongoing to determine the root cause of this event. EASA states this 
condition could lead to structural failure of an MGB rear attachment 
fitting and possibly result in detachment of an MGB suspension bar. 
Accordingly, EASA AD 2018-0282 requires a one-time inspection of each 
attachment screw for the number of threads that protrude beyond its 
bolt and depending on the outcome, applying a sealing compound on the 
nuts, and convex and concave washers; measuring the height of the 
protruding threads; inspecting the tightening torque of the nuts; 
inspecting the upper and lower convex and concave washers; measuring 
and inspecting removed attachment screws; and replacing affected parts. 
EASA AD 2018-0282 also requires reporting information to Airbus 
Helicopters. EASA states EASA AD 2018-0282 is considered to be an 
interim action and further AD action may follow.

Comments

    The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in 
developing this AD. Benjamin Pico and Patrick Imperatrice commented 
that they support the NPRM.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral 
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the 
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after 
evaluating all information provided by EASA and determining the unsafe 
condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters 
of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest 
require adopting the AD requirements as proposed.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers this AD interim action. The design approval 
holder is currently developing a modification that will address the 
unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is 
developed, approved, and available, the FAA might consider additional 
rulemaking.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD requires the operator to perform a torque check and 
report the value to Airbus, whereas this AD does not.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 
AS332-53.02.04, Revision 0, dated November 21, 2018, which specifies 
checking the number of threads that protrude beyond the bolt of the 
attachment screws on the RH and LH rear attachment fittings of the MGB. 
This service information also specifies a one-time inspection of the 
affected parts and depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable 
corrective actions.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects14 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following 
costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 
per work-hour.
    Inspecting the number of threads and applying a sealing compound 
takes about 3 work-hours for an estimated cost of $255 per helicopter 
and $3,570 for the U.S. fleet.
    Replacing an attachment fitting and the set of four screws takes 
about 16 work-hours and parts cost $6,330 for an estimated replacement 
cost of $7,690.

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.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on helicopters identified in this rulemaking action.

[[Page 15935]]

Regulatory Findings

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866,
    2. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

2020-05-23 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-19873; Docket No. FAA-
2019-0882; Product Identifier 2018-SW-113-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, 
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters, certificated in any category, 
delivered to the first owner or customer before September 1, 2018, 
and with attachment screws part number (P/N) 330A22013520 installed 
with main gearbox (MGB) right hand (RH) side rear attachment fitting 
P/N 330A22270207 and left hand (LH) side rear attachment fitting P/N 
330A22270206 of the MGB suspension bars.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as elongation of the 
attachment screws and loss of tightening torque of the nut. This 
condition could result in structural failure of an MGB attachment 
fitting, detachment of an MGB suspension bar, and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective April 24, 2020.

(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 110 hours time-in-service, remove the sealing compound 
and inspect each screw on the RH and LH rear attachment fitting by 
identifying the number of threads ``F'' that extend beyond the nut 
as shown in Detail ``B'' of Figure 2 of Airbus Helicopter Alert 
Service Bulletin No. AS332-53.02.04, Revision 0, dated November 21, 
2018 (ASB AS332-53.02.04).
    (1) If there are 2 or less threads on each of the four screws; 
or there are 3 or more threads on any screw with a thread height 
``H'' less than 5 mm (0.196 in), before further flight, apply a 
sealing compound on the nuts, and convex and concave washers.
    (2) If there are 3 or more threads on any screw with a thread 
height ``H'' of 5 mm (0.196 in) or more, before further flight, do 
the following, and for more than one screw, do one at a time while 
working in a cross pattern: Remove from service the nut; and remove 
the screw from the helicopter and measure the length ``L'' of the 
screw as shown in Detail ``D'' of Figure 2 of ASB AS332-53.02.04.
    (i) If any washers are bent or corroded, before further flight, 
remove from service the washers.
    (ii) If the length ``L'' measurement is less than or equal to 
59.3 mm (2.334 in) for each screw removed as required by paragraph 
(e)(2) of this AD, visually inspect the screw for corrosion and 
cracks.
    (A) For each screw with corrosion or a crack, before further 
flight, replace the screw with an airworthy screw.
    (B) For any screw with no corrosion or cracks, before further 
flight, re-install the screw and washers. Install a new nut and 
apply sealant.
    (iii) If the length ``L'' measurement is greater than 59.3 mm 
(2.334 in) for any screw removed as required by paragraph (e)(2) of 
this AD, before further flight, replace the rear attachment fitting 
that the screw was removed from and its set of four screws, washers, 
and nuts, and apply sealant as shown in Figures 2 and 3 of ASB 
AS332-53.02.04.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards 
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: 
Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management 
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., 
Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests 
that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal 
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office 
or certificate holding district office, before operating any 
aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC.

(g) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation 
Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 
No. 2018-0282, dated December 19, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on 
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2019-
0882.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6320, Main Rotor 
Gearbox.

(i) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
53.02.04, Revision 0, dated November 21, 2018.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; 
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on March 16, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
 Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-05848 Filed 3-19-20; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P