Proposed Rule2021-19964
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited) Helicopters
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
September 20, 2021
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Aviation Administration
Abstract
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited (type certificate previously held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited) Model 505 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by the determination that reducing the pressure altitude limitations for certain fuel types is necessary. This proposed AD would require revising the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manal (RFM) for your helicopter. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 179 (Monday, September 20, 2021)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 179 (Monday, September 20, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 52109-52111]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-19964]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0783; Project Identifier 2019-SW-009-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited (Type
Certificate Previously Held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited)
Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited (type certificate previously
held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited) Model 505 helicopters.
This proposed AD was prompted by the determination that reducing the
pressure altitude limitations for certain fuel types is necessary. This
proposed AD would require revising the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manal
(RFM) for your helicopter. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 4,
2021.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
<bullet> Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
<bullet> Fax: (202) 493-2251.
<bullet> 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.
<bullet> Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Bell
Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l'Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J
1R4, Canada; telephone 1-450-437-2862 or 1-800-363-8023; fax 1-450-433-
0272; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6a1a18050e1f091e191f1a1a05181e2a080f06060c06030d021e44090507"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="6f1f1d000b1a0c1b1c1a1f1f001d1b2f0d0a030309030608071b410c0002">[email protected]</span></a>; or at <a href="https://www.bellflight.com/support/contact-support">https://www.bellflight.com/support/contact-support</a>. You may view this
[[Page 52110]]
service information at the 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.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0783; 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 NPRM, the
Transport Canada AD, any comments received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aerospace Engineer,
Dynamic Systems Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, Policy &
Innovation Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone (817) 222-5110; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c8baa9a7e6adacbdb8bdafa9a6bca188aea9a9e6afa7be"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="f183909edf949584818496909f8598b1979090df969e87">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2021-0783; Project Identifier
2019-SW-009-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposal because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to
<a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a>, including any personal information you
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Rao
Edupuganti, Aerospace Engineer, Dynamic Systems Section, Technical
Innovation Policy Branch, Policy & Innovation Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#bac8dbd594dfdecfcacfdddbd4ced3fadcdbdb94ddd5cc"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="d0a2b1bffeb5b4a5a0a5b7b1bea4b990b6b1b1feb7bfa6">[email protected]</span></a>. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is
not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket
for this rulemaking.
Background
Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has
issued Canadian AD CF-2019-08, dated March 5, 2019 (Canadian AD CF-
2019-08), to correct an unsafe condition for Bell Helicopter Textron
Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters serial numbers 65011 and
subsequent. Transport Canada advises of the need to reduce the altitude
limitations for Jet B and JP-4 wide-cut fuels following unsatisfactory
performance of the engine at the original higher altitude limitations
with these wide-cut fuels. This condition, if not addressed, could
result in low fuel pressure, engine flame-out, or engine power
interruption (a change in any engine performance parameter--including
but not limited to gas generator speed, power turbine speed, main gas
temperature, or output torque--outside its normal limits for the
prevailing operating conditions).
Accordingly, Canadian AD CF-2019-08 requires revising the RFM to
reflect the reduced altitude operating limitations for Jet B and JP-4
wide-cut fuels.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of
Canada and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
the FAA's bilateral agreement with Canada, Transport Canada, its
technical representative, has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition
described in its AD. The FAA is proposing this AD after evaluating all
known relevant information and determining that the unsafe condition
described previously is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters
of the same type design.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Figure 1-6. Fuel Operating Envelope (Sheet 1 of
1), of Bell 505 Rotorcraft Flight Manual BHT-505-FM-1, Revision 3,
dated July 25, 2018, which specifies limitations, normal and emergency
procedures, performance data, weight and balance information, and
provides a list of approved optional equipment supplements. This
revision of the service information includes an updated figure of the
fuel operating envelope showing the reduced pressure altitude
limitations for Jet B and JP-4 fuels.
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.
Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM
This proposed AD would require revising the existing RFM for your
helicopter by updating the fuel operating envelope figure to require
reduced pressure altitude limitations for Jet B and JP-4 fuels.
Incorporating the RFM revision may be performed by the owner/operator
(pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate and must be
entered into the aircraft records showing compliance with this AD in
accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through (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. This is an exception to our standard
maintenance regulations.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Transport Canada AD
Canadian AD CF-2019-08 requires updating the RFM to Bell 505 RFM
BHT-505-FM-1 Revision 3 or later revisions approved by Transport
Canada, whereas this proposed AD would require revising the Limitations
Section of the RFM for your helicopter by replacing the existing Figure
1-6. with Figure 1-6. Fuel Operating Envelope (Sheet 1 of 1) of Bell
505 RFM BHT-505-FM-1, Revision 3, dated July 25, 2018.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would
affect 73 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Labor rates are estimated at
$85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates the
following costs to comply with this proposed AD.
Revising the existing RFM for your helicopter would take about 0.5
work-hour for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter or $3,139 for the
U.S. fleet.
[[Page 52111]]
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 products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA 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) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Would 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.
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:
Bell Textron Canada Limited (Type Certificate Previously Held by
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited): Docket No. FAA-2021-0783;
Project Identifier 2019-SW-009-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive
(AD) by November 4, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (type
certificate previously held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada
Limited) Model 505 helicopters having serial number 65011 and
subsequent, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 7300, Engine fuel
and control.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by the determination that reducing the
pressure altitude limitations for certain fuel types is necessary.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address unsatisfactory flight
performance of the engine above pressure altitude limitations for
Jet B and JP-4 fuels. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in low fuel pressure, engine flame-out, or engine power
interruption.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
Within 30 calendar days after the effective date of this AD,
revise the Limitations Section of the existing Rotorcraft Flight
Manual (RFM) for your helicopter by replacing Figure 1-6. with
Figure 1-6. Fuel Operating Envelope (Sheet 1 of 1) of Bell 505
Rotorcraft Flight Manual BHT-505-FM-1, Revision 3, dated July 25,
2018 (BHT-505-FM-1 Revision 3). Using a different document with
information identical to that in Figure 1-6. Fuel Operating Envelope
(Sheet 1 of 1) of BHT-505-FM-1 Revision 3 is acceptable for
compliance with the requirements of this AD. The action required by
this paragraph may be performed by the owner/operator (pilot)
holding at least a private pilot certificate and must be entered
into the aircraft records showing compliance with this AD in
accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through (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.
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(1) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#87beaac6d1d4aac6ced5aab0b4b7aac6cac8c4c7e1e6e6a9e0e8f1"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="bc8591fdeaef91fdf5ee918b8f8c91fdf1f3fffcdadddd92dbd3ca">[email protected]</span></a>.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(i) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Rao Edupuganti,
Aerospace Engineer, Dynamic Systems Section, Technical Innovation
Policy Branch, Policy & Innovation Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#2d5f4c42034849585d584a4c4359446d4b4c4c034a425b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="f183909edf949584818496909f8598b1979090df969e87">[email protected]</span></a>.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Bell
Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l'Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J
1R4, Canada; telephone 1-450-437-2862 or 1-800-363-8023; fax 1-450-
433-0272; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7202001d16071106010702021d00063210171e1e141e1b151a065c111d1f"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="69191b060d1c0a1d1a1c1919061b1d290b0c05050f05000e011d470a0604">[email protected]</span></a>; or at <a href="https://www.bellflight.com/support/contact-support">https://www.bellflight.com/support/contact-support</a>. 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. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
(3) The subject of this AD is addressed in Transport Canada AD
CF-2019-08, dated March 5, 2019. You may view the Transport Canada
AD on the internet at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> in Docket No. FAA-
2021-0783.
Issued on September 7, 2021.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-19964 Filed 9-17-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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