Federal Register #FAA20265479

FAA Regulatory Update and Airworthiness Directive for Airbus Helicopters EC130T2

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, is proposing regulatory changes and an airworthiness directive affecting weather reporting and helicopter safety: - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - Office: Flight Standards Service - OEMs and Vendors: - Airbus Helicopters (OEM for Model EC130T2) - Products/Services Requested: - Regulatory update to allow FAA-prepared or FAA-approved weather reports and third-party sources, replacing outdated National Weather Service references - Airworthiness Directive for Airbus Helicopters Model EC130T2: - Installation of a modification to the rear drive shaft, sliding flange, and equipped splined sleeve - Repetitive inspection of tail rotor drive shaft vibration levels - Prohibition on installation of certain parts and balance corrections unless requirements are met - Unique or Notable Requirements: - FAA assumes authority to approve alternate weather information sources - Enhanced weather information availability and streamlined approval for operators - Mandatory compliance for affected Airbus helicopter operators to address tail rotor vibration issues - Locations: - FAA Headquarters, Washington, DC - U.S. Department of Transportation Docket Operations, Washington, DC - FAA Aviation Safety Engineer Office, Westbury, NY

Description

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes to revise its regulations to replace weather reports from the National Weather Service with reports prepared by FAA and other approved sources. This change is necessary because the National Weather Service no longer provides weather reports as previously described in the regulations. The proposal aims to update references and ensure continued weather awareness in the National Airspace System. The rulemaking would also streamline the approval process for alternate weather sources, enhancing weather information availability and reducing burdens on operators.

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