Discussion \n\n\n\tThe FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters with an M/R hub part number (P/N) 332A31-0001-00, 332A31-0001-01, 332A31-0001-02, 332A31-0001-03, 332A31-0001-04, 332A31-0001-05, or 332A31-0001-06 installed. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 16, 2020 (85 FR 43160). The NPRM proposed to require removing at least one M/R ''NR'' sensor and borescope inspecting the phonic wheel lock washer for correct height of the lock washer. The NPRM also proposed to prohibit the installation of an affected M/R hub unless it has successfully passed the required inspection for correct lock washer installation. The proposed requirements were intended to prohibit the incorrect assembly of the M/R hub, which, if not corrected, could result in failure of the M/R hub components and subsequent loss of controlof the helicopter. \n\tThe NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2019-0172, dated July 18, 2019, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. This EASA AD was issued to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS 332 C, AS 332 C1, AS 332 L, and AS 332 L1 helicopters with an M/R hub P/N 332A31-0001-00, 332A31-0001-01, 332A31-0001-02, 332A31-0001-03, 332A31-0001-04, 332A31- 0001-05, or 332A31-0001-06 installed. EASA advises of reported occurrences of ''NR'' sensor fluctuation and subsequent investigation identifying incorrect positioning of the M/R hub phonic wheel due to incorrect installation of the M/R mast nut press screws during maintenance of the M/R hubs. EASA advises that this condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of M/R hub components, possibly resulting in loss of helicopter control. Accordingly, the EASA AD requires a one-time inspection of the lock washer position and depending on findings, replacing the M/R hub. \n\nComments \n\n\n\tThe FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule, but the FAA did not receive any comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. \n\nFAA's Determination \n\n\n\tThese 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 of the information provided by EASA and determining the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting these AD requirements as proposed. \n\nDifferences Between This AD and the EASA AD \n\n\n\tThe EASA AD requires using a flashlight and visually inspecting the position of the lock washer, and further specifies that using an endoscope can facilitate that inspection. This AD requires borescope inspecting for the correct height of the lock washer instead. After inspecting, the EASA AD requires reinstalling the removed ''NR'' sensor(s), while this AD requires installing airworthy ''NR'' sensor(s) instead. If the lock washer is in an incorrect position, the EASA AD requires replacing the M/R hub, whereas this AD requires repairing or replacing the M/R hub with an airworthy M/R hub instead. \n\nRelated Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 \n\n\n\tAirbus Helicopters has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332- 62.00.76, Revision 0, dated May 27, 2019, which specifies inspecting the position of the M/R hub lock washer for civilian Model AS332C, C1, L, and L1 and military Model AS332B, B1, F1, M, and M1 helicopters. \n\tThis 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. \n\nCosts of Compliance \n\n\n\tThe FAA estimates that this AD affects 11 helicopters of U.S. Registry. \n\n((Page 73614)) \n\nLabor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. \n\tRemoving an ''NR'' sensor and borescope inspecting takes about 0.5 work-hour for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter and $473 for the U.S. fleet. \n\tRepairing the M/R hub takes about 10 work-hours and parts cost up to about $3,000 for an estimated cost of up to $3,850 and replacing the M/R hub takes about 8 work-hours and parts cost about $50,000 for an estimated cost of $50,680. \n\nAuthority for This Rulemaking \n\n\n\tTitle 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. \n\tThe FAA is issuingthis 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. \n\nRegulatory Findings \n\n\n\tThis 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. \n\tFor the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: \n\t(1) Is not a ''significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, \n\t(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and \n\t(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. \n\nList of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 \n\n\n\tAir transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety.