[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 76 (Monday, April 20, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 21754-21757]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-08297]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0390; Product Identifier 2018-SW-096-AD; Amendment 
39-19901; AD 2020-07-22]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; PZL Swidnik S.A. Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for PZL 
Swidnik S.A. (PZL) Model PZL W-3A helicopters. This AD requires 
inspecting the main gearbox (MGB) bolts and washers to determine if 
they are properly locked and, depending on the inspection outcome, 
removing the engine, removing certain bolts from

[[Page 21755]]

service, and performing more in-depth inspections; and depending on the 
outcome of those inspections, replacing the graphite seal assembly or 
removing it from service. Finally, this AD prohibits installing any 
affected MGB on a helicopter unless it has met the requirements of this 
AD. This AD was prompted by reports that the bolts securing the input 
quill and graphite seal assembly of the MGB were not properly locked. 
The actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of May 5, 2020.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by June 19, 2020.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0390; 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 incorporated by reference 
service information, any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
    For service information identified in this final rule, contact WSK 
``PZL- [Sacute]widnik'' S.A., Al. Lotnik[oacute]w Polskich 1, 21-045 
[Sacute]widnik, Poland, telephone +48 664 424 798, or at 
www.pzl.swidnik.pl. You may review the referenced service information 
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available 
on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0390.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, 
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-
5110; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and the FAA did not provide you with notice and an opportunity 
to provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, the 
FAA invites you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written 
comments, data, or views. The FAA also invites comments relating to the 
economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that resulted 
from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific 
portion of the AD, explain the reason for any recommended change, and 
include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain 
duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written 
comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should 
submit them only one time. The FAA will file in the docket all comments 
received, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public 
contact with FAA personnel concerning this rulemaking during the 
comment period. The FAA will consider all the comments received and may 
conduct additional rulemaking based on those comments.

Discussion

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2018-0238, dated November 6, 
2018 (EASA AD 2018-0238), to correct an unsafe condition for 
Wytw[oacute]rnia Sprz[eogon]tu Komunikacyjnego ``PZL-[Sacute]widnik'' 
Sp[oacute][lstrok]ka Akcyjna (WSK ``PZL-[Sacute]WIDNIK'' S.A.) Model 
PZL W-3A and PZL W-3AS helicopters.
    EASA advises of occurrences of improperly locked bolts, which 
secure the input quill cover and graphite seal assembly of the WR-3 
MGB. The bolts are locked in place through the use of locking tabs on 
the washer part number (P/N) 89.06.0387. According to EASA, a 
subsequent investigation determined that the root cause of this event 
was improper assembly of the MGB during manufacturing or overhaul. EASA 
stated this condition could lead to disconnection of the engines to the 
MGB mechanical link, possibly resulting in loss of helicopter control.

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 the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    WYTW[Oacute]RNIA SPRZ[Eogon]TU KOMUNIKACYJNEGO ``PZL-
[Sacute]widnik'' Sp[oacute]lka Akcyjna has issued Mandatory Bulletin 
No. BO-37-18-289, dated October 23, 2018, which specifies using a 
fiberscope to inspect for improperly locked bolts that secure the input 
quill cover and graphite seal assembly of WR-3 MGBs. This service 
information also specifies reporting certain information to PZL and 
Pratt & Whitney Rzesz[oacute]w S.A., removing the engine for more in-
depth inspection of the bolts for signs of rubbing and deformation, 
inspecting the bolts for proper torque, removing the input drive quill 
seals, and inspecting the graphite seal assembly.
    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.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires, within 25 hours time-in-service, for all PZL 
Model PZL W-3A helicopters that have a WR-3 MGB serial number up to and 
including 316463007M installed, inspecting each bolt P/N 89.00.0049 for 
proper locking using a fiberscope. Depending on the inspection outcome, 
this AD requires removing the engine and inspecting each bolt head for 
signs of rubbing and deformation, inspecting each bolt for proper 
torque, removing the left-hand and right-hand input drive quill seals, 
and inspecting each graphite seal assembly. This AD requires removing 
from service any bolt with signs of rubbing or deformation on its bolt 
head. If necessary, this AD requires replacing the graphite seal 
assembly or removing it from service. This AD also prohibits installing 
affected MGBs that have not been inspected for improperly locked bolts.

[[Page 21756]]

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD applies to Model PZL W-3AS helicopters, whereas this AD 
does not because that model is not FAA type-certificated. The EASA AD 
requires reporting certain information to PZL and Pratt & Whitney 
Rzesz[oacute]w S.A., whereas this AD does not.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not 
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt 
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without notice and comment, 
RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    There are no costs of compliance with this AD because there are no 
helicopters of this type certificate on the U.S. Registry.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C.) 
authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for 
rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds that those procedures 
are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.'' 
Under this section, an agency, upon finding good cause, may issue a 
final rule without seeking comment prior to the rulemaking.
    There are no helicopters with this type certificate on the U.S. 
Registry. Therefore, notice and opportunity for prior public comment 
are unnecessary pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the 
reasons stated above, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 
5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 
days.

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.

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, and
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.

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):

2020-07-22 PZL Swidnik S.A.: Amendment 39-19901; Docket No. FAA-
2020-0390; Product Identifier 2018-SW-096-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to PZL Swidnik S.A. (PZL) Model PZL W-3A 
helicopters, certificated in any category, with a WR-3 main gearbox 
(MGB) with a serial number (S/N) up to 316463007M inclusive and with 
a bolt part number (P/N) 89.00.0049 and washer P/N 89.06.0387, 
installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as improper locking of the 
bolts which secure the input quill cover and graphite seal assembly 
of the WR-3 MGB. This condition could result in disconnection of an 
engine to the MGB mechanical link and subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective May 5, 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

    (1) Within 25 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspect each bolt to 
determine if it is properly locked with the washer by following 
Chapter II, Inspection Procedure, paragraphs 3.1.a) and 3.1.b) of 
WYTW[Oacute]RNIA SPRZ[Eogon]TU KOMUNIKACYJNEGO ``PZL-
[Sacute]widnik'' Sp[oacute]lka Akcyjna Mandatory Bulletin No. BO-37-
18-289, dated October 23, 2018 (MB BO-37-18-289). If any bolt is not 
properly locked, before further flight:
    (i) Remove the engine to visually inspect the bolt head for any 
sign of rubbing and deformation.
    (ii) If there is no sign of rubbing or deformation, loosen the 
bolt and tighten to the correct torque value of 2.5-3.0 Nm. Lock the 
bolt by folding tabs of the washer up to the side surfaces of the 
bolt head. Photo 4 of MB BO-37-18-289 shows an example of a properly 
locked bolt.
    (iii) If there is any sign of rubbing or deformation;
    (A) Remove from service the bolt.
    (B) Remove the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) input drive 
quill seals by following paragraphs 1.1. through 1.6., Procedure--
Case B. Attachment 1 to MB BO-37-18-289.
    (C) Visually inspect each graphite seal assembly of the LH and 
RH input drive quill seals for any crack, damage, and surface 
deformation in the surface area identified as ``D'' of Sketch 3. 
Radial Seal, Attachment 1 to MB BO-37-18-289, and any crack, damage, 
surface deformation, cracked graphite segments and seizing of 
grooves in the surface area identified as ``E'' of Sketch 3. Radial 
Seal, Attachment 1 to MB BO-37-18-289. For purposes of this 
inspection, damage to the graphite seal assembly may be indicated by 
spalling, chipping, scratches, or dents. Also visually inspect for 
unsmooth freedom of radial motion of each graphite ring in the 
surface area identified as ``E'' of Sketch 3. Radial Seal, 
Attachment 1 to MB BO-37-18-289, any scratch and dent in the surface 
areas identified as ``A'' and ``B'' of Sketch 3. Radial Seal, 
Attachment 1 to MB BO-37-18-289, and seizing on the surface area 
identified as ``C'' of Sketch 3. Radial Seal, Attachment 1 to MB BO-
37-18-289.
    (1) If there is any crack, damage, or surface deformation in 
surface area ``E'' greater than an area of 1.5 mm\2\ or a depth of 
1mm, before further flight, remove from service the graphite seal 
assembly.
    (2) If there is any spalling or chipping in surface area ``E'' 
that is equal to or less than an area of 1.5 mm\2\ and a depth of 1 
mm, or any scratch or dent in surface areas ``A'' or ``B'' or 
seizing in surface area ``C'' that is acceptable after blending 
material flashes, before further flight, replace the graphite seal 
assembly.
    (3) If there is any crack, damage, or surface deformation on 
surface ``D'', cracked graphite

[[Page 21757]]

segments or seizing of grooves on surface ``E'', any scratch or dent 
in surface areas ``A'' or ``B'' or seizing in surface area ``C'' 
that is not acceptable after blending material flashes, or radial 
motion of graphite rings is difficult and not smooth, before further 
flight, remove from service the graphite seal assembly.
    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a WR-3 
MGB with an S/N up to 316463007M inclusive and with a bolt P/N 
89.00.0049 and washer P/N 89.06.0387 on any PZL Model PZL W-3A 
helicopter, unless it has been inspected in accordance with the 
requirements of this AD.

(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: 
Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy 
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. 2018-0238, dated November 6, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on 
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2020-
0390.

(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) WYTW[Oacute]RNIA SPRZ[Eogon]TU KOMUNIKACYJNEGO ``PZL-
[Sacute]widnik'' Sp[oacute]lka Akcyjna Mandatory Bulletin No. BO-37-
18-289, dated October 23, 2018.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact PZL-
[Sacute]widnik S.A., A1. Lotnik[oacute]w Polskich 1, 21-045 
[Sacute]widnik, Poland; telephone +48 81 468 09 01, 751 20 71; fax 
+48 81 468 09 19, 751 21 73; or at www.pzl.swidnik.pl.
    (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 817222-5110.
    (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 April 15, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-08297 Filed 4-17-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P