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Published 2021-03-02 · Federal Register document 2021-03688

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

Publication summary

The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015-26- 01, which applied to certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy-absorbing seat. AD 2015-26-01 required inspecting for the presence of labels (placards) that prohibit stowing anything under the seat, and if a label (placard) is missing or not clearly visible to each occupant, installing a label (placard). This AD retains all of the requirements of AD 2015-26-01, and also adds helicopters to the applicability and requires a modification (installing new labels (placards)). This AD was prompted by the determination that additional helicopters are affected by the unsafe condition, and that new labels (placards) are required for all affected helicopters. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Why this record is shown

Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:24:08.106391+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.

Source revision
federal_register_ad_metadata_2021-9c919420683447c6
Source row
results[51]
Raw source SHA-256
9c919420683447c683ad0c877cb886e341c11862be32b47c536a001b1d76dcb5

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2021-02-01
Effective date printed in this edition
2021-04-06
Read 14 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 6, 2021.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14865–14952, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 147ef368f9b758b502f32b3a3bd0aa346b59ca45a04c8384d9a2fae9d7902ce4

Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 79466, 
December 22, 2015) (AD 2015-26-01).

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14952–15077, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 7888d3acf0d6344eb109f08fd1df3c5339ce2eac66ce918c9547b46cbf7754a8

Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, 
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B and 
EC155B1 helicopters, certificated in any category, equipped with at 
least one energy-absorbing seat listed in figure 1 to paragraph (c) 
of this AD, except any helicopter embodying the applicable Airbus 
Helicopters modifications on all applicable seat positions listed in 
figure 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD.
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

[[Page 12089]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR02MR21.000

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR02MR21.001

BILLING CODE 4910-13-C

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15077–15686, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 043ab14342e38b9af7f62dcf66637359929c6aa3904c4f23dd7592122171f0e1

Subject
(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 11, Placards and 
markings.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15686–15780, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f7ad866ff6b884a348599d64f94c4cdf27fa898e61c5ea0ad63fde703c8bbefe

Reason
(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by the discovery that required labels 
(placards) prohibiting stowage of any object under an energy-
absorbing seat had not been systematically installed. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address any object stowed under an energy-
absorbing seat which could reduce the efficiency of the energy-
absorbing function of

[[Page 12090]]

the seat, resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an 
accident.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15780–16223, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 8135e977266b3564d78104f7498c56995413e42c8c6c6443f30d2dc2ecb2aa2f

Compliance
(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16223–16325, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3

Retained Inspection and Corrective Actions With Revised Service Information
(g) Retained Inspection and Corrective Actions With Revised Service 
Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (e) of AD 
2015-26-01, with revised service information. Within 110 hours time 
in service after January 26, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2015-26-
01), do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD, 
as applicable for your model helicopter.
    (1) For Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP 
helicopters:
    (i) Inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, placards, or 
markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats in the 
locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-04A012, both 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert 
Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 
2017, or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019; as applicable for your model 
helicopter.
    (ii) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every 
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-
04A012, both Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017, or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019 or is 
not visible and legible to every occupant, before further flight, 
install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-04A012, both Revision 0, 
dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin 
No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017, or Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 2, 
dated November 6, 2019; as applicable for your model helicopter.
    (2) For Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 
helicopters:
    (i) Inspect each seat leg in the cabin and cockpit for labels, 
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the 
seats.
    (ii) If a label, placard, or marking does not exist on one leg 
of each seat or is not visible and legible, before further flight, 
install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., and the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert 
Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both 
Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019; as applicable for your model 
helicopter.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16325–19072, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2eab6d2769971304ec9ea09979c785f74edfa89d70c211287589a86129066367

New Inspection and Corrective Actions for Certain Helicopters
(h) New Inspection and Corrective Actions for Certain Helicopters

    (1) For Model AS332C and AS332L helicopters: Within 110 hours 
time in service or 30 days, whichever occurs first, after the 
effective date of this AD, inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, 
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats 
in the locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017.
    (2) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every 
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017 or is not visible and legible to every 
occupant, before further flight, install a placard in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19072–20047, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 9af4a9cab359678bd9f5a27d15f931d2c1476988b2ea3cfe118cde0829458ba8

New Requirements of This AD: Modification (Install New Placards)
(i) New Requirements of This AD: Modification (Install New Placards)

    (1) At the applicable times specified in paragraph (i)(2) of 
this AD, install new placards prohibiting stowage of any object 
under an energy-absorbing seat in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i) through (vii) of this AD, except 
you are not required to discard the old labels (placards). Doing the 
installation required by this paragraph terminates the requirements 
of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (v) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-25A144, 
Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (vi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, 
Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
    (vii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A203, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017; as applicable for your 
model helicopter.
    (2) At the applicable times specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i) or 
(ii) of this AD, do the installation required by paragraph (i)(1) of 
this AD.
    (i) For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, AS-
365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, and EC225LP helicopters, all 
manufacturer serial numbers, except Model EC225LP helicopters, 
manufacturer serial numbers 2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and 
2921: Within 110 hours time in service or 6 months, whichever occurs 
first after the effective date of this AD.
    (ii) For Model EC225LP helicopters, manufacturer serial numbers 
2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and 2921: Within 50 hours time in 
service or 2 months, whichever occurs first after the effective date 
of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20047–22176, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f2921f4b082a04396c20d395ede24dd9af7f07336028f87f15f781aa8617bdd8

No Actions Required for Certain Helicopters
(j) No Actions Required for Certain Helicopters

    For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP 
helicopters delivered after September 7, 2017: No actions are 
required, provided that no energy-absorbing seat, as identified in 
figure 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD, has been installed on that 
helicopter since delivery.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22176–22520, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0cd0aa3aa7ed6ff8f3e891fb9de93eb96ef3a3ee8315657253ff42f796543f5c

Credit for Previous Actions
(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in 
paragraphs (i)(1) and (2) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, Revision 0, 
dated September 7, 2017.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22520–23105, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d303fc019475fcc50e1decb037ac0d29ae83efc354eca4d140ed436fc6b2513a

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Validation Branch, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. Before 
using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 
office.
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, notify your 
principal inspector or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of 
the local flight standards district office or certificate holding 
district office, before operating any aircraft complying with this 
AD through an AMOC.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23105–24230, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4145422dc246378fba27f34b095eac0f8dd537b0e904f4880cba211decebc69b

Related Information
(m) Related Information

    (1) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019-0088R1, dated November 8, 
2019. This EASA AD may be found in the AD docket on the internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2020-0905.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen 
Arrigotti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, 
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3218; email: 
[email protected].
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (n)(5) and (6) of this AD.

[[Page 12091]]

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24230–24988, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 9afbb7be2e8b0bc042b18528faab1e41eb417f02f57c0bd1f9904e9db217e45f

Material Incorporated by Reference
(n) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
April 5, 2021.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (v) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
    (vi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (vii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
    (viii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
25A144, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (ix) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019.
    (x) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, 
Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
    (xi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A203, 
Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
January 26, 2016 (80 FR 79466, December 22, 2015).
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (5) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in 
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand 
Prairie, TX 75052; phone: 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax: 972-
641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
    (6) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
    (7) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24988–28001, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e0878001b003dea0ac2543b3c7bb763328d3cb4c3358ef52b89202a2026f990c

Explicit historical replacement wording

Find all recorded historical references to AD 2021-02-01 · 0 printed reference observations in this pinned collection.

These are observations from one dated publication. Current legal status is unknown; aircraft applicability, installed configuration, compliance and burden require separate evidence. Missing or unparsed conditions remain unknown.

Why these observations are shown

They were extracted offline from the same immutable official HTML source as the complete recorded text. The dated source wording, original text coordinates and exact quote digests are retained. PDF/text agreement and current regulatory effect have not been qualified.

Observation revision: whole-ad-publication-clause-observations-1.0.1. Text SHA-256: e539f7bf356b68b1164a73eb416161370a43aace247d16490ac766ff5c6832b2. Source manifest: 84804a35818b88a8621baa2afe87e8216215751d0c2cdf8785aba2b5534b62e7.

Official source · 2021-03-02

Publication text

This is the complete recorded text of this dated publication.

Current legal effect is unknown. Aircraft applicability, installed configuration and compliance require separate evidence. PDF/text agreement has not been evaluated.

Read the complete official publication text
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 39 (Tuesday, March 2, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 12086-12091]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-03688]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0905; Project Identifier 2019-SW-102-AD; Amendment 
39-21384; AD 2021-02-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015-26-
01, which applied to certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, 
AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters 
with an energy-absorbing seat. AD 2015-26-01 required inspecting for 
the presence of labels (placards) that prohibit stowing anything under 
the seat, and if a label (placard) is missing or not clearly visible to 
each occupant, installing a label (placard). This AD retains all of the 
requirements of AD 2015-26-01, and also adds helicopters to the 
applicability and requires a modification (installing new labels 
(placards)). This AD was prompted by the determination that additional 
helicopters are affected by the unsafe condition, and that new labels 
(placards) are required for all affected helicopters. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective April 6, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of April 6, 
2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of January 
26, 2016 (80 FR 79466, December 22, 2015).

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052; phone: 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax: 972-641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/support.html. You may view 
this referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional 
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort 
Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material 
at the FAA, call 817-222-5110. It is also available on the internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2020-0905.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0905; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The 
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, 
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathleen Arrigotti, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-
3218; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 
79466, December 22, 2015) (AD 2015-26-01). AD 2015-26-01 applied to 
certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, 
AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy-
absorbing seat. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 
7, 2020 (85 FR 63240). The NPRM was prompted by the discovery that 
required labels (placards) prohibiting stowage of any object under an 
energy-absorbing seat had not been systematically installed and the 
determination that additional helicopters are affected by the unsafe 
condition, and that new labels (placards) are required for all affected 
helicopters. The NPRM proposed to continue to require inspecting for 
the presence of labels (placards) that prohibit stowing anything under 
the seat, and if a label (placard) is missing or not clearly visible to 
each occupant, installing a label (placard), and also proposed to add 
helicopters to the applicability and require a modification (installing 
new labels (placards)). The FAA is issuing this AD to address any 
object stowed under an energy-absorbing seat, which could reduce the 
efficiency of the energy-absorbing function of the seat,

[[Page 12087]]

resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an accident. See the 
MCAI for additional background information.
    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued 
EASA AD 2019-0088R1, dated November 8, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0088R1) (also 
referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus 
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, 
AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy-
absorbing seat. EASA advised that during certification of an energy-
absorbing seat with a new part number, the labels (placards) that 
require keeping the space under the seat free of any object were not 
systematically installed. EASA stated that this condition, if not 
corrected, could prompt occupants to stow objects under an energy-
absorbing seat, which would reduce the effectiveness of the seat and 
the occupants' chance of surviving an accident. EASA consequently 
issued AD 2014-0204, dated September 11, 2014; corrected September 12, 
2014 (which corresponds to FAA AD 2015-26-01) to require a one-time 
inspection for the presence of labels (placards) and, if they were 
missing or unreadable, making and installing labels (placards) 
prohibiting the placing of an object under an energy absorbing seat. 
EASA later advised, in EASA AD 2017-0226, dated November 17, 2017 (EASA 
AD 2017-0226), which superseded EASA AD 2014-0204, that additional new 
labels (placards) were required and that additional helicopters were 
affected by the unsafe condition. In this MCAI, which supersedes EASA 
AD 2017-0226, EASA advised that additional extended compliance times 
were necessary for certain helicopters.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2020-0905.

Comments

    The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in 
developing this final rule. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or 
on the determination of the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety 
and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, 
except for minor editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these 
minor changes:
    <bullet> Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
    <bullet> Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus Helicopters has issued the following service information. 
This service information describes procedures for installing new labels 
(placards) prohibiting stowage of any object under an energy-absorbing 
seat. These documents are distinct since they apply to different 
helicopter models.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
25A144, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A179, Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A203, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    Airbus Helicopters has also issued the following service 
information. This service information describes procedures for 
inspecting for labels, placards, or markings that prohibit stowing 
anything under certain seats and installing a placard. These documents 
are distinct since they apply to different helicopter models.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
04A012, Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019.
    This AD also requires the following service information, which the 
Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by 
reference as of January 26, 2016 (80 FR 79466, December 22, 2015).
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    <bullet> Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
04A012, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    This 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.

Other Related Service Information

    Airbus Helicopters issued Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin 
No. EC225-04A012, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017, which describes 
procedures for inspecting for labels, placards, or markings that 
prohibit stowing anything under certain seats and installing a placard.
    Airbus Helicopters has also issued Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017, which 
describes procedures for installing new labels (placards) prohibiting 
stowage of any object under an energy-absorbing seat.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 90 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection (52 Helicopters) (Retained   1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0             $85          $4,420
 actions from AD 2015-26-01).            hour = $85.
Install label (placard) (52             2 work-hours x $85 per           Minimal             170           8,840
 Helicopters) (Retained actions from     hour = $170.
 AD 2015-26-01).
Inspection (38 Helicopters) (New        1 work-hour x $85 per                  0              85           3,230
 actions).                               hour = $85.

[[Page 12088]]

 
Install label (placard) (38             2 work-hours x $85 per           Minimal             170           6,460
 Helicopters) (New actions).             hour = $170.
Install new label (placard) (New        2 work-hours x $85 per           Minimal             170          15,300
 actions).                               hour = $170.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

    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.
    The FAA is 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 rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA 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.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 79466, December 22, 2015), and 
adding the following new AD:

2021-02-01 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21384; Docket No. FAA-
2020-0905; Project Identifier 2019-SW-102-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 6, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 79466, 
December 22, 2015) (AD 2015-26-01).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, 
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B and 
EC155B1 helicopters, certificated in any category, equipped with at 
least one energy-absorbing seat listed in figure 1 to paragraph (c) 
of this AD, except any helicopter embodying the applicable Airbus 
Helicopters modifications on all applicable seat positions listed in 
figure 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD.
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[[Page 12089]]

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[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR02MR21.001

BILLING CODE 4910-13-C

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 11, Placards and 
markings.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by the discovery that required labels 
(placards) prohibiting stowage of any object under an energy-
absorbing seat had not been systematically installed. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address any object stowed under an energy-
absorbing seat which could reduce the efficiency of the energy-
absorbing function of

[[Page 12090]]

the seat, resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an 
accident.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Retained Inspection and Corrective Actions With Revised Service 
Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (e) of AD 
2015-26-01, with revised service information. Within 110 hours time 
in service after January 26, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2015-26-
01), do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD, 
as applicable for your model helicopter.
    (1) For Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP 
helicopters:
    (i) Inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, placards, or 
markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats in the 
locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-04A012, both 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert 
Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 
2017, or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019; as applicable for your model 
helicopter.
    (ii) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every 
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-
04A012, both Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017, or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019 or is 
not visible and legible to every occupant, before further flight, 
install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-04A012, both Revision 0, 
dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin 
No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017, or Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 2, 
dated November 6, 2019; as applicable for your model helicopter.
    (2) For Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 
helicopters:
    (i) Inspect each seat leg in the cabin and cockpit for labels, 
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the 
seats.
    (ii) If a label, placard, or marking does not exist on one leg 
of each seat or is not visible and legible, before further flight, 
install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., and the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert 
Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both 
Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019; as applicable for your model 
helicopter.

(h) New Inspection and Corrective Actions for Certain Helicopters

    (1) For Model AS332C and AS332L helicopters: Within 110 hours 
time in service or 30 days, whichever occurs first, after the 
effective date of this AD, inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, 
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats 
in the locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017.
    (2) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every 
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017 or is not visible and legible to every 
occupant, before further flight, install a placard in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, 
dated September 7, 2017.

(i) New Requirements of This AD: Modification (Install New Placards)

    (1) At the applicable times specified in paragraph (i)(2) of 
this AD, install new placards prohibiting stowage of any object 
under an energy-absorbing seat in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i) through (vii) of this AD, except 
you are not required to discard the old labels (placards). Doing the 
installation required by this paragraph terminates the requirements 
of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (v) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-25A144, 
Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (vi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, 
Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
    (vii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A203, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017; as applicable for your 
model helicopter.
    (2) At the applicable times specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i) or 
(ii) of this AD, do the installation required by paragraph (i)(1) of 
this AD.
    (i) For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, AS-
365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, and EC225LP helicopters, all 
manufacturer serial numbers, except Model EC225LP helicopters, 
manufacturer serial numbers 2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and 
2921: Within 110 hours time in service or 6 months, whichever occurs 
first after the effective date of this AD.
    (ii) For Model EC225LP helicopters, manufacturer serial numbers 
2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and 2921: Within 50 hours time in 
service or 2 months, whichever occurs first after the effective date 
of this AD.

(j) No Actions Required for Certain Helicopters

    For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP 
helicopters delivered after September 7, 2017: No actions are 
required, provided that no energy-absorbing seat, as identified in 
figure 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD, has been installed on that 
helicopter since delivery.

(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in 
paragraphs (i)(1) and (2) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, Revision 0, 
dated September 7, 2017.

(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Validation Branch, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. Before 
using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 
office.
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, notify your 
principal inspector or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of 
the local flight standards district office or certificate holding 
district office, before operating any aircraft complying with this 
AD through an AMOC.

(m) Related Information

    (1) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019-0088R1, dated November 8, 
2019. This EASA AD may be found in the AD docket on the internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2020-0905.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen 
Arrigotti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, 
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3218; email: 
[email protected].
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (n)(5) and (6) of this AD.

[[Page 12091]]

(n) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
April 5, 2021.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (v) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
    (vi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (vii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
    (viii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
25A144, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
    (ix) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019.
    (x) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, 
Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
    (xi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A203, 
Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
January 26, 2016 (80 FR 79466, December 22, 2015).
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (5) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in 
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand 
Prairie, TX 75052; phone: 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax: 972-
641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
    (6) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
    (7) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on January 4, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-03688 Filed 3-1-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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