[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 115 (Friday, June 14, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 35773-35776]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-14139]
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Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 115 / Friday, June 14, 2013 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 35773]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2013-0486; Directorate Identifier 2010-SW-031-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI),
Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
MDHI Model MD900 helicopters with certain main rotor blade (MRB)
retention bolts (bolts) installed. This proposed AD would require a
daily check of the position of each bolt and would also require a daily
check and a repetitive inspection for a gap in each bolt. The proposed
AD would also require, if necessary, removing and inspecting the bolt
for a crack and replacing any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt. This
proposed AD is prompted by multiple reports of in-service bolt
failures. The proposed actions are intended to prevent failure of a
bolt, which could lead to loss of MRB structural integrity and
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 13, 2013.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the economic
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street
address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket
shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
MDHI, Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop
M615, Mesa, AZ 85215-9734, telephone (800) 388-3378, fax (480) 346-
6813, or at http://www.mdhelicopters.com. You may review copies of the
referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional
Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth,
Texas 76137.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, FAA,
Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L,
3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712, telephone (562) 627-5233, fax
(562) 627-5210, email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting
written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to
the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed
electronically, commenters should submit only one time.
We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as
a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay.
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.
Discussion
We propose to adopt a new AD for MDHI Model MD900 helicopters with
certain bolts installed. This proposed AD is prompted by multiple
reports of in-service bolt failures, which could lead to loss of the
MRB structural integrity and subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter. Although these bolt failures have primarily occurred in the
United Kingdom, it is possible that the failures affect MDHI Model 900
helicopters in the United States. This condition, if not detected,
could lead to loss of MRB structural integrity and subsequent loss of
control of the helicopter.
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant
information and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is
likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.
Related Service Information
We have reviewed MDHI Alert Service Bulletin SB900-116R1, dated
April 9, 2010 (ASB SB900-116R1), which supersedes ASB SB900-116, dated
February 24, 2010 (ASB SB900-116).
ASB SB900-116 specifies a repetitive check of the blade retention
bolts, part number (P/N) 900R3100001-103 and 900R3100001-105, for a gap
and, depending on the outcome of the inspection, removing and
inspecting the bolt for damage. The ASB also specifies a repetitive
force check of each bolt, P/N 900R3100001-103, and a torque check of
each bolt, P/N 900R3100001-105. Lastly, the ASB specifies a daily
preflight check of each bolt to examine the position of the bolt and
for a gap, and, if any bolt has moved up or down or if there was no
gap, removing and inspecting the bolt.
Superseding ASB SB900-116R1 retains the same specifications as ASB
SB90016, except that it revises the
[[Page 35774]]
interval for the bolt force and torque checks from 4-6 flight-hours to
8-10 flight-hours. ASB SB90016R1 also revises the change of force or
torque from not more than 10 percent to not more than 10
percent.
Proposed AD Requirements
The proposed AD would require:
Before the first flight of each day, visually checking
each bolt for failure and for a gap between the thrust washer and the
retainer.
An owner/operator (pilot) may perform these visual checks
and must enter compliance into the helicopter maintenance records in
accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1)-(4) and 91.417(a)(2)(v). A pilot may
perform this check because it involves only a visual check for the
position of the bolt and a check for a gap between the thrust washer
and retainer and can be performed equally well by a pilot or mechanic.
This authorization is an exception to our standard maintenance
regulations.
If there is any indication of bolt failure or if there is
no gap between the thrust washer and retainer, before further flight,
removing and inspecting the bolt for a crack and replacing any cracked
bolt with an airworthy bolt.
Within 300 hours time-in-service, and thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 300 hours TIS, inspecting each bolt for a gap
between the thrust washer and the retainer.
[cir] Determining if there is a missing O-ring and installing any
missing O-ring.
[cir] If there is no gap between the thrust washer and retainer,
before further flight, removing and inspecting the bolt for a crack and
replacing any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt.
[cir] If there is a gap between the thrust washer and retainer,
measuring the gap in two locations with a feeler gage. If the gap is
too large, removing and inspecting the bolt for a crack, before further
flight; and then replacing any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information
This proposed AD uses the term ``inspect'' when describing the
action of inspecting a bolt for a crack and inspecting for a gap
between the thrust washer and the retainer. The ASB uses the term
``check.''
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 29 helicopters in
the U.S. registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following
costs in order to comply with this AD: The average labor rate is $85
per work hour. It would take about .5 work hour to do a gap inspection
of each bolt. It would take about 1 work hour to replace a cracked bolt
and the required parts would cost $800 at a total cost per helicopter
of $928.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply
with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new Airworthiness
Directive (AD):
MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI): Docket No. FAA-2013-0486; Directorate
Identifier 2010-SW-031-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Model MD 900 helicopters with a main rotor
blade retention bolt (bolt), part number (P/N) 900R3100001-103 or
900R3100001-105, installed; certificated in any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as bolt failure. This
condition could result in loss of main rotor blade structural
integrity and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by August 13, 2013.
(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) Before the first flight of each day:
(i) Visually check each bolt for failure. Failure of a bolt may
be indicated by movement of the bolt out of the bolt hole or by
inconsistent extension of the bolt above or below the other bolts
being inspected (a failed bolt migrates out of the bolt hole).
(ii) Visually check for a gap between the thrust washer and the
retainer, P/N 900R2100009-101 or -103. The thrust washer is depicted
as item 2 and the retainer is depicted as item 8 in Figure 1 to
paragraph (e) of this AD.
[[Page 35775]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP14JN13.002
(iii) The actions required by paragraphs (e)(1)(i) and
(e)(1)(ii) may be performed by the owner/operator (pilot) holding at
least a private pilot certificate and must be entered into the
aircraft maintenance records showing compliance with this AD in
accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1)-(4) and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v).
The record must be maintained as required by 14 CFR 91.417, 121.380,
or 135.439.
(iv) If there is any indication of bolt failure or if there is
no gap between the thrust washer and retainer, before further
flight, remove and inspect the bolt for a crack.
[[Page 35776]]
Replace any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt.
(2) Within 300 hours time-in-service (TIS), and thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 300 hours TIS, inspect each bolt for a gap
between the thrust washer and the retainer.
(i) Determine whether an O-ring is installed. Install any
missing O-ring.
(ii) If there is no gap between the thrust washer and retainer,
before further flight, remove and inspect the bolt for a crack.
Replace any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt.
(iii) If there is a gap between the thrust washer and retainer,
measure the gap in two locations, 180 degrees apart, with a feeler
gage. If the gap is more than 0.100 inch (2.54 mm) at either
location, before further flight, remove and inspect the bolt for a
crack. Replace any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
Airframe Branch (ANM-120L), FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send
your request to Roger Durbin, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Los Angeles
Aircraft Certification Office, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, 3960
Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712, telephone (562) 627-5233, fax
(562) 627-5210, email [email protected].
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you
notify your principal inspector or lacking a principal inspector,
the manager of the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft
complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
MDHI Alert Service Bulletin SB900-116R1, dated April 9, 2010,
which supersedes ASB SB900-116, dated February 24, 1010, neither of
which is incorporated by reference, contains additional information
about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in
this AD, contact MDHI, Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E.
McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, AZ 85215-9734, telephone (800)
388-3378, fax (480) 346-6813, or at http://www.mdhelicopters.com.
You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Office
of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room
663, Fort Worth, Texas.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component: 6210: Main rotor blade
retention bolts.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 29, 2013.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-14139 Filed 6-13-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P