[Federal Register: March 1, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 39)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 9851-9853]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr01mr05-4]
[[Page 9851]]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-05-20399; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-AD;
Amendment 39-13988; AD 2005-04-16]
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. Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 airplanes. This
AD requires you to do a one-time inspection of the windshield de-ice
wiring system for heat damage and incorrect wire sizes and to replace
any wires that are damaged or the incorrect size. This AD results from
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the
airworthiness authority for Switzerland. We are issuing this AD to
detect and replace windshield de-ice wiring of the incorrect size,
which could result in heat damage of the windshield de-ice wiring. This
failure could lead to possible fire in the overhead panel of the flight
compartment.
DATES: This AD becomes effective on March 8, 2005.
As of March 8, 2005, the Director of the Federal Register approved
the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the
regulation.
We must receive any comments on this AD by April 19, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following to submit comments on this AD:
DOT Docket Web site: Go to http://dms.dot.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to http://www.regulations.gov
and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401,
Washington, DC 20590-001.
Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
To get the service information identified in this AD, contact
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., CH-6371 Stans, Switzerland.
To view the comments to this AD, go to http://dms.dot.gov. The
docket number is FAA-05-20399; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, ACE-
112, 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 of Civil
Aviation (FOCA), which is the airworthiness authority for Switzerland,
recently notified FAA that an unsafe condition may exist on certain
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 airplanes. FOCA reports
a co-pilot windshield de-ice system failure, which was caused by an
overheated return wire in the windshield heating system. Investigation
revealed that the wiring in the windshield heating system was not
installed following the specifications in the applicable wiring
diagrams.
What is the potential impact if FAA took no action? Windshield de-
ice wiring of the incorrect size could result in heat damage of the
windshield de-ice wiring. This failure could lead to possible fire in
the overhead panel of the flight compartment.
Is there service information that applies to this subject? Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. has issued Service Bulletin No. 30-009, dated January 25,
2005.
What are the provisions of this service information? The service
bulletin includes procedures for:
--Inspecting the wires installed in the windshield de-ice system to
make sure they are the correct size (American Wire Gage) as specified
in the applicable wiring diagrams;
--Inspecting the wires, splices, and related link wires in the terminal
block (TB 152) for any heat damage; and
--Replacing all damaged or incorrect sized wires.
What action did FOCA take? FOCA classified this service bulletin as
mandatory and issued Swiss AD Number HB-2005-079, dated February 11,
2005, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these airplanes in
Switzerland.
Did FOCA inform the United States under the bilateral airworthiness
agreement? These Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-12 and PC-12/45
airplanes are manufactured in Switzerland and are type-certificated for
operation in the United States under the provisions of Sec. 21.29 of
the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and the applicable
bilateral airworthiness agreement.
Under this bilateral airworthiness agreement, 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 FOCA's findings, reviewed
all available information, and determined that we need to issue an AD
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 Aircraft Ltd. Models PC-12 and PC-12/45
airplanes of the same type design that are registered in the United
States, we are issuing this AD to detect and replace windshield de-ice
wiring of the incorrect size, which could result in heat damage of the
windshield de-ice wiring. This failure could lead to possible fire in
the overhead panel of the flight compartment.
What does this AD require? This AD requires you to incorporate the
actions in the previously-referenced service bulletin.
In preparing this rule, we contacted type clubs and aircraft
operators to get technical information and information on operational
and economic impacts. We did not receive any information through these
contacts. If received, we would have included a discussion of any
information that may have influenced this action in the rulemaking
docket.
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.
Comments Invited
Will I have the opportunity to comment before you issue the rule?
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public
comment; however, we invite you to submit any written relevant data,
views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your
[[Page 9852]]
comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include the docket
number, ``FAA-05-20399; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-AD'' at the
beginning of your comments. We will post all comments we receive,
without change, to http://dms.dot.gov, including any personal
information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this AD.
Using the search function of our docket Web site, anyone can find
and read the comments received into any of our dockets, including the
name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on
behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). This is docket
number FAA-05-20399; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-AD. You may
review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register
published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78) or you may visit http://dms.dot.gov
.
Are there any specific portions of this AD I should pay attention
to? We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. If you contact
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 this AD in light of those comments and
contacts.
Docket Information
Where can I go to view the docket information? You may view the AD
docket that contains the AD, any comments received, and any final
disposition in person at the DMS Docket Offices between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m. (eastern standard time), Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The Docket Office (telephone 1-800-647-5227) is located on
the plaza level of the Department of Transportation NASSIF Building at
the street address stated in ADDRESSES. You may also view the AD docket
on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov. The comments will be available
in the AD docket shortly after the DMS receives them.
Authority for This Rulemaking
What authority does FAA have for issuing this rulemaking action?
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.
We are 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 AD.
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
``Docket No. FAA-05-20399; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-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):
2005-04-16 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Amendment 39-13988; Docket No.
FAA-05-20399; Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-AD.
When Does This AD Become Effective?
(a) This AD becomes effective on March 8, 2005.
Are Any Other ADs Affected by This Action?
(b) None.
What Airplanes Are Affected by This AD?
(c) This AD affects airplane Models PC-12 and PC-12/45 airplanes
with serial numbers 322 through 400 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 replace windshield
de-ice wiring of the incorrect size, which could result in heat
damage of the windshield de-ice wiring. This failure could lead to
possible fire in the overhead panel of the flight compartment.
What Must I Do To Address This Problem?
(e) To address this problem, you must do the following:
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Actions Compliance Procedures
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(1) Inspect the windshield Within 10 hours time- Follow Pilatus
de-ice wiring on both the in-service (TIS) or Aircraft Ltd.
left and right side 30 days, whichever Service Bulletin
windshields for heat damage occurs first, after No. 30-009, dated
of the wires, splices, and March 8, 2005 (the January 25, 2005.
related link wires in the effective date of
area of the terminal block this AD). This is a
152 (TB 152). one-time inspection.
[[Page 9853]]
(2) Inspect the windshield Within 10 hours TIS Follow Pilatus
deice wiring and related or 30 days, Aircraft Ltd.
link wires on both the left whichever occurs Service Bulletin
and right side windshields first, after March No. 30-009, dated
to verify that wires of the 8, 2005 (the January 25, 2005.
correct size (American Wire effective date of
Gage) are installed as this AD). This is a
specified in Service one-time inspection.
Bulletin 30-009, dated
January 25, 2005.
(3) If any heat damage or Before further Follow Pilatus
incorrect wiring is found, flight. Aircraft Ltd.
replace the damaged or Service Bulletin
incorrect wires. No. 30-009, dated
January 25, 2005.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
May I Request an Alternative Method 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 39.19. Unless FAA authorizes otherwise, send your request to
your principal inspector. The principal inspector may add comments
and will send your request to the Manager, Standards Office, Small
Airplane Directorate, FAA. For information on any already approved
alternative methods of compliance, contact Doug L. Rudolph,
Aerospace Engineer, ACE-112, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059;
facsimile: (816) 329-4090.
Is There Other Information That Relates to This Subject?
(g) FOCA Airworthiness Directive HB-2005-079, dated February 11,
2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Does This AD Incorporate Any Material by Reference?
(h) You must do the actions required by this AD following the
instructions in Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Service Bulletin No. 30-009,
dated January 25, 2005. 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 Aircraft Ltd., CH-6371 Stans, Switzerland. To get
a copy of this service information, contact Doug Rudolph, Aerospace
Engineer, ACE-112, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301,
Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; facsimile:
(816) 329-4090. To review copies of this service information, go to
the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this material at NARA, go to:
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html
or call (202) 741-6030. To view the
AD docket, go to the Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-
401, Washington, DC 20590-001 or on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov.
The docket number is Docket No. FAA-05-20399;
Directorate Identifier 2005-CE-02-AD.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 17, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-3634 Filed 2-28-05; 8:45 am]
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