This amendment adopts a new AD that is applicable to Robinson Model R44 helicopters. The Civil Aviation Authority of England reported that on October 11, 1994, an operator of a Model R44 helicopter experienced binding in the cyclic control system. An inspection revealed that the material on the cyclic control push-pull tubes had torn and caused the push-pull tubes to bind in the push-pull tube guide. After reviewing this report, as well as the manufacturer's data on wear-testing of the material used on the push-pull tube, and the maintenance history of the wear of this material at the existing sleeve guide, the FAA has determined that the existing sleeve guide should be replaced with a roller guide within the next 25 hours time-in-service (TIS) in order to reduce the wear on the push-pull tube material, and preserve the integrity of the cyclic control system. The cyclic control system controls the attitude of the helicopter. If it binds, the operator loses the ability to control inputs to the main rotor. Due to the criticality of the cyclic control system and the relatively short compliance time, this rule must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe condition in the affected helicopters. This condition, if not corrected, could result in binding in the cyclic control system and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
The FAA has reviewed Robinson Helicopter Company R44 Service Bulletin SB-4 (SB), dated January 24, 1995, which describes procedures for removal of the existing sleeve guide and replacement with a roller guide within the next 50 hours TIS. It also describes procedures for inspecting the push-pull sleeve tube for signs of wear, and replacement as necessary. However, based upon the manufacturer's test data as well as the TIS of the helicopter that was involved in the one reported incident (56.5 hours TIS), the FAA has determined that a compliance time of 25 hours TIS is necessary to ensure the safetyof the affected helicopters.
Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to exist or develop on other Robinson Model R44 helicopters of the same type design, this AD is being issued to prevent binding in the cyclic control system and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. This AD requires removal of the sleeve guide and replacement with a roller guide. This AD also requires an initial inspection and repetitive inspections at 100 hours TIS intervals of the C121-7 push-pull tube sleeve for signs of wear, and replacement as necessary. The actions are required to be accomplished in accordance with the service bulletin described previously.
Since a situation exists that requires the immediate adoption of this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for prior public comment hereon are impracticable, and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
Although this action is in the form of a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and, thus, was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment, comments are invited on this rule. Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire. Communications should identify the Rules Docket number and be submitted in triplicate to the address specified under the caption "ADDRESSES." All communications received on or before the closing date for comments will be considered, and this rule may be amended in light of the comments received. Factual information that supports the commenter's ideas and suggestions is extremely helpful in evaluating the effectiveness of the AD action and determining whether additional rulemaking action would be needed.
Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might suggest a need to modify the rule. All commentssubmitted will be available, both before and after the closing date for comments, in the Rules Docket for examination by interested persons. A report that summarizes each FAA-public contact concerned with the substance of this AD will be filed in the Rules Docket.
Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments submitted in response to this rule must submit a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: "Comments to Docket No. 95-SW-16-AD." The postcard will be date stamped and returned to the commenter.
The regulations adopted herein will not have substantial direct effects 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. Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this final rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
The FAA has determined that this regulation is an emergency regulation that must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe condition in aircraft, and that it is not a "significant regulatory action" under Executive Order 12866. It has been determined further that this action involves an emergency regulation under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979). If it is determined that this emergency regulation otherwise would be significant under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures, a final regulatory evaluation will be prepared and placed in the Rules Docket. A copy of it, if filed, may be obtained from the Rules Docket at the location provided under the caption "ADDRESSES."
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
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
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. App. 1354(a), 1421 and 1423; 49 U.S.C. 106(g); and 14 CFR 11.89.
39.13 - [Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding a new airworthiness directive to read as follows: