[Federal Register: October 9, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 196)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 58265-58268]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr09oc03-2]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 2003-CE-42-AD; Amendment 39-13333; AD 2003-20-15]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-12 and
PC-12/45 Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Models PC-12 and PC-12/45
airplanes. This AD requires you to inspect for certain installed fuel
booster pumps and replace that fuel booster pump, inspect other certain
fuel booster pumps for defects, and either install lead protection
spiral wrap or replace the defective fuel booster pumps, depending on
whether defects are found. This AD is the result of mandatory
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness
authority for Switzerland. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct
any defective fuel booster pump, which could result in electrical
arcing from the leads in an air/fuel mixture.
[[Page 58266]]
Such failure could lead to a fire or explosion of a fuel tank.
DATES: This AD becomes effective on October 10, 2003.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the regulation as of
October 10, 2003.
We must receive any comments on this AD by December 10, 2003.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following to submit comments on this AD:
[sbull] By mail: FAA, Central Region, Office of the Regional
Counsel, Attention: Rules Docket No. 2003-CE-42-AD, 901 Locust, Room
506, Kansas City, Missouri 64106.
[sbull] By fax: (816) 329-3771. [sbull] By e-mail: 9-ACE-7-Docket@faa.gov. Comments sent
electronically must contain ``Docket No. 2003-CE-42-AD'' in the subject
line. If you send comments electronically as attached electronic files,
the files must be formatted in Microsoft Word 97 for Windows or ASCII.
You may get the service information identified in this AD from
Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd., Product Support Department, 11755
Airport Way, Broomfield, Colorado 80021; telephone: (303) 465-9099;
facsimile: (303) 465-6040.
You may view the AD docket at FAA, Central Region, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Attention: Rules Docket No. 2003-CE-42-AD, 901
Locust, Room 506, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. Office hours are 8 a.m.
to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; facsimile: (816) 329-4090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
What Events Have Caused This AD?
The Federal Office for Civil Aviation (FOCA), which is the
airworthiness authority for Switzerland, recently notified FAA that an
unsafe condition may exist on certain Pilatus Models PC-12 and PC-12/45
airplanes. The FOCA reports 11 reports of damaged fuel booster pump
wires from 9 different aircraft. Within the FAA service difficulty/
accident report system, we found eight occurrences of damaged fuel
booster pump wires. This damage to the electrical wires could possibly
cause electrical arcing when the wires get in an air/fuel mixture.
What Are the Consequences if the Condition Is Not Corrected?
Such electrical arcing could lead to a fire or explosion of a fuel
tank.
Is There Service Information That Applies to This Subject?
Pilatus has issued:
Pilatus PC12 Service Bulletin No. 28-011, Revision No. 1, dated
July 11, 2003;
Pilatus PC12 Maintenance Manual Temporary Revision No. 12-03 (12-
10-01), dated June 6, 2003; and
Pilatus PC12 Maintenance Manual Temporary Revision No. 28-02 (28-
20-04), dated June 6, 2003.
What Are the Provisions of This Service Information?
The service information includes procedures for:
--Inspecting the fuel booster pumps for defects;
--Replacing fuel booster pumps;
--Installing lead protection spiral wrap; and
--Incorporating Temporary Revision No. 7, dated June 6, 2003, or
Temporary Revision No. 37, dated June 6, 2003, to the Section 2--
Limitations section of the applicable pilot's operating handbook (POH).
This is a temporary option and replacing the subject fuel booster pump
or installing the lead protection spiral wrap is mandatory within a
certain time frame.
What Action Did the FOCA Take?
The FOCA classified this service bulletin as mandatory and issued
Swiss AD Number HB 2003-301, dated July 17, 2003, in order to ensure
the continued airworthiness of these airplanes in Switzerland.
Was This in Accordance With the Bilateral Airworthiness Agreement?
The Pilatus Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 are manufactured in
Switzerland and are type-certificated for operation in the United
States under the provisions of section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and the applicable bilateral airworthiness
agreement.
Per this bilateral airworthiness agreement, the FOCA has kept us
informed of the situation described above.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
What Has FAA decided?
We have examined the FOCA's findings, reviewed all available
information, and determined that AD action is necessary for products of
this type design that are certificated for operation in the United
States.
Since the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist
or develop on other Pilatus Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 airplanes of the
same type design that are registered in the United States, this AD is
being issued to detect and correct any defective fuel booster pump,
which could result in electrical arcing from the leads in an air/fuel
mixture. Such failure could lead to a fire or explosion of a fuel tank.
What Does This AD Require?
This AD requires you to incorporate the actions in the previously-
referenced service information.
In preparation of this rule, we contacted type clubs and aircraft
operators to obtain technical information and information on
operational and economic impacts. We did not receive any information
through these contacts. If received, we would have included, in the
rulemaking docket, a discussion of any information that may have
influenced this action.
How Does the Revision to 14 CFR Part 39 Affect This AD?
On July 10, 2002, we published a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67
FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs FAA's AD system. This
regulation now includes material that relates to altered products,
special flight permits, and alternative methods of compliance. This
material previously was included in each individual AD. Since this
material is included in 14 CFR part 39, we will not include it in
future AD actions.
Compliance Time of This AD
What Would Be the Compliance Time of This AD?
The compliance time of this AD is within the next 7 calendar days
after October 10, 2003 (the effective date of this AD).
Why Is This Compliance Time Presented in Calendar Time Instead of Hours
TIS?
The leads may rub and arc as a result of aircraft operation.
Therefore, FAA has determined that a compliance based on calendar time
should be utilized in this AD in order to ensure that the unsafe
condition is addressed on all aircraft in a reasonable time period.
Comments Invited
Will I Have the Opportunity To Comment Prior to the Issuance of the
Rule?
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight
safety and was not preceded by notice and an
[[Page 58267]]
opportunity for public comment; however, we invite you to submit any
written relevant data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your
comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``AD Docket No.
2003-CE-42-AD'' in the subject line of your comments. If you want us to
acknowledge receipt of your mailed comments, send us a self-addressed,
stamped postcard with the docket number written on it; we will date-
stamp your postcard and mail it back to you. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of the rule that might suggest a need to modify it. If a person
contacts us through a nonwritten communication, and that contact
relates to a substantive part of this AD, we will summarize the contact
and place the summary in the docket. We will consider all comments
received by the closing date and may amend the AD in light of those
comments.
Regulatory Findings
Will This AD Impact Various Entities?
We have determined that this 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.
Will This AD Involve a Significant Rule or Regulatory Action?
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
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); 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.
We prepared a summary of the costs to comply with this AD and
placed it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary by
sending a request to us at the address listed under ADDRESSES. Include
``AD Docket No. 2003-CE-42-AD'' in your request.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under 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
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):
2003-20-15 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Amendment 39-13333; Docket No.
2003-CE-42-AD.
When Does This AD Become Effective?
(a) This AD becomes effective on October 10, 2003.
Are Any Other ADs Affected By This Action?
(b) None.
What Airplanes Are Affected by This AD?
(c) This AD affects Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 airplanes, serial
numbers 101 through 520, with fuel booster pump (fuel pump) part
number (P/N) 969.84.11.401, 968.84.11.403, or 968.84.11.404
installed, that are certificated in any category.
What Is the Unsafe Condition Presented in This AD?
(d) This AD is the result of mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness authority for
Switzerland. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct any
defective fuel booster pump, which could result in electrical arcing
from the leads in an air/fuel mixture. Such electrical arcing could
lead to a fire or explosion of a fuel tank.
What Must I Do To Address This Problem?
(e) To address this problem, you must accomplish the following
unless already accomplished:
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Actions Compliance Procedures
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(1) Replace any installed Within the next 7 Per Pilatus PC12
fuel booster pump part calendar days after Service Bulletin
number (P/N) 969.84.11.401 October 10, 2003 No. 28-011,
with a fuel pump that has (the effective date Revision No. 1,
the Pilatus PC12 Service of this AD). dated July 11,
Bulletin No. 28-011, 2003, Pilatus PC12
Revision No. 1, dated July Maintenance Manual
11, 2003, modification Temporary Revision
incorporated. No. 12-03 (12-10-
01), dated June 6,
2003, and Pilatus
PC12 Maintenance
Manual Temporary
Revision No. 28-02
(28-20-04), dated
June 6, 2003.
(2) Inspect the installed Within the next 7 Per Pilatus PC12
fuel booster pump P/N calendar days after Service Bulletin
968.84.11.403 or October 10, 2003 No. 28-011,
968.84.11.404 for defects: (the effective date Revision No. 1,
(i) If defects are found, of this AD). dated July 11,
replace the fuel booster 2003, Pilatus PC12
pump with a fuel booster Maintenance Manual
pump that has the Temporary Revision
modification referenced in No. 12-03 (12-10-
Pilatus PC12 Service 01), dated June 6,
Bulletin No. 28-011, 2003, and Pilatus
Revision No. 1, dated July PC12 Maintenance
11, 2003.. Manual Temporary
Revision No. 28-02
(28-20-04), dated
June 6, 2003, and
Pilatus PC12
Maintenance Manual
Temporary Revision
No. 28-02 (28-20-
04), dated June 6,
2003.
(ii) If no defects are
found:
(B) Re-identify the fuel
booster pump P/N and
968.84.11.403 or
968.84.11.404 by adding the
suffix letter ``B''
adjacent to the serial
Maintenance number on the
fuel pump identification
plate..
(3) Do not install any part As of October 10, Not applicable.
referenced in paragraph 2003 (the effective
(e)(1) or (e)(2) of this AD date of this AD).
unless it has been modified
per Pilatus PC12 Service
Bulletin No. 28-011,
Revision No. 1, dated July
11, 2003.
[[Page 58268]]
(4) If you have scheduled Prior to further Anyone who holds at
the replacement or flight after least a private
installation required by scheduling the pilot certificate,
paragraphs (e)(1) and replacement of as authorized by
(e)(2) of this AD, but the installation. The section 43.7 of the
schedule puts you beyond replacement or Federal Aviation
the time to comply, you may installation of Regulations (14 CFR
insert Temporary Revision paragraphs (e)(1) 43.7), may
No. 7, dated June 6, 2003, and (e)(2) of this incorporate the POH
or Temporary Revision No. AD must be revision required
37, dated June 6, 2003, in accomplished within by this AD. You
the Section 2--Limitations 50 hours time-in- must make an entry
section of the applicable service after into the aircraft
pilot's operating handbook October 10, 2003 records that shows
(POH) and operate the (the effective date compliance with
aircraft according. of this AD). After this AD, per
compliance with section 43.9 of the
paragraphs (e)(1) Federal Aviation
and (e)(2) of this Regulations (14 CFR
AD, you may remove 43.9). Send the
Temporary Revision following to the
No. 7, dated June Small Airplane
6, 2003, or Directorate using
Temporary Revision the procedures
No. 37, dated June described in
6, 2003, from the paragraph (f) of
POH. this AD: the
airplane model and
serial number
designation; the
number of hours TIS
on the airplane;
the scheduled date
for the replacement/
installation; and
the name and
location of the
authorized repair
shop.
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What About Alternative Methods of Compliance?
(f) You may request a different method of compliance or a
different compliance time for this AD by following the procedures in
14 CFR 39.13. Send your request to the Manager, Standards Office,
Small Airplane Directorate, FAA. For information on any already
approved alternative methods of compliance, contact Doug Rudolph,
Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059;
facsimile: (816) 329-4090.
Is There Material Incorporated by Reference?
(g) You must do the actions required by this AD per Pilatus PC12
Service Bulletin No. 28-011, Revision No. 1, dated July 11, 2003,
Pilatus PC12 Maintenance Manual Temporary Revision No. 12-03 (12-10-
01), dated June 6, 2003, and Pilatus PC12 Maintenance Manual
Temporary Revision No. 28-02 (28-20-04), dated June 6, 2003. The
Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of this service bulletin in accordance with 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. You may get a copy from Pilatus Business
Aircraft Ltd., Product Support Department, 11755 Airport Way,
Broomfield, Colorado 80021; telephone: (303) 465-9099; facsimile:
(303) 465-6040.
You may review copies at FAA, Central Region, Office of the
Regional Counsel, 901 Locust, Room 506, Kansas City, Missouri 64106;
or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street,
NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
Is There Other Information That Relates to This Subject?
(h) Swiss AD Number HB 2003-301, dated July 17, 2003, also
addresses the subject of this AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 2, 2003.
Dorenda D. Baker,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 03-25477 Filed 10-8-03; 8:45 am]
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