A proposal to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD for Bell Model 222, 222B, and 222U helicopters was published in the Federal Register on February 7, 2003 (68 FR 6383). That action proposed to require inspecting the adjustable stop screws of the magnetic brake assembly to ensure they are installed correctly; repairing the arm assembly, if necessary; installing the stop screw with the proper adhesive; adjusting the arm assembly travel; and applying slippage marks.
Transport Canada, the airworthiness authority for Canada, notified the FAA that an unsafe condition may exist on Bell Model 222, 222B, and 222U helicopters with Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) kits, part number (P/N) 222-706-013, installed, and all delivered spare magnetic brakes, P/N 222-706-013, manufactured by Memcor Truohm, Inc., under P/N MP 498- 3. Transport Canada advises that the stop screws, P/N MS51959-3, of the magnetic brake, P/N 204-001-376-003 (Memcor Truohm P/N MP 498-3), were installed without the proper adhesive.
Bell has issued Bell Helicopter Textron Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 222-01-87, for Model 222 and 222B helicopters, and ASB No. 222U-01-58, for Model 222U helicopters, both dated January 19, 2001. Both ASB's specify a one-time inspection of the magnetic brake adjustable stop screw, P/N M551959-3; repairing any arm assembly mechanical damage created by the screws; and installing the stop screw with the proper adhesive and adjusting the arm assembly shaft travel. Transport Canada classified these ASB's as mandatory and issued AD No. CF-2002-17, dated March 4, 2002, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these helicopters in Canada.
Interested persons have been afforded an opportunity to participate in the making of this amendment. No comments were received on the proposal or the FAA's determination of the cost to the public. The FAA has determined that air safety and the public interest require the adoption of the rule as proposed.On July 10, 2002, the FAA issued a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67 FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs the FAA's airworthiness directives system. The regulation now includes material that relates to altered products, special flight permits, and alternative methods of compliance. However, for clarity and consistency in this final rule, we have retained the language of the NPRM regarding that material.
The FAA estimates that 92 helicopters of U.S. registry will be affected by this AD, that it will take approximately 3 work hours per helicopter to accomplish the required actions, and that the average labor rate is $60 per work hour. Required parts will cost approximately $3,785. Based on these figures, the total cost impact of the AD on U.S. operators is estimated to be $364,780, assuming all parts are replaced.
The regulations adopted herein 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. Therefore, it is determined that this final rule does not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (1) is not a "significant regulatory action" under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a "significant rule" under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and (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. A final evaluation has been prepared for this action and it is contained in the Rules Docket. A copy of it 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. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
39.13 [Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding a new airworthiness directive to read as follows: