AD 2024-14-05

88886 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 218 / Tuesday, November 12, 2024 / Rules and Regulations (i) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): 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 responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, mail it to the address identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA; or Transport Canada; or Bombardier, Inc.’s Transport Canada Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (j) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact Steven Dzierzynski, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone: 516– 228–7300; email: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Task 24–61–01–101*, ‘‘Restoration of the left DC Power Center (DCPC) (Pre SB100– 24–30),’’ Section 5–10–20, ‘‘Time Limits— Supplementary Limitations,’’ of Part 2, ‘‘Airworthiness Limitations’’, of the Bombardier Challenger 300 Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks, Publication No. CH 300 TLMC, Revision 24, dated August 9, 2023. Note 2 to paragraph (k)(2)(i): The asterisk (or ‘‘one star’’) with the last three digits of the task numbers listed in paragraphs (k)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD indicates that the task is an airworthiness limitation task. (ii) Task 24–61–01–101*, ‘‘Restoration of the Left DC Power Center (DCPC) (Pre SB350–24–005),’’ Section 5–10–20, ‘‘Time Limits—Supplementary Limitations,’’ of Part 2, ‘‘Airworthiness Limitations,’’ of the Bombardier Challenger 350 Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks, Publication No. CH 350 TLMC, Revision 14, dated August 9, 2023. (3) For Bombardier Inc. material identified in this AD, contact Bombardier Business Aircraft Customer Response Center, 400 Co ˆ te Vertu Road West, Dorval, Que ´bec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514 855–2999; email ac.yul@aero.bombardier.com; website bombardier.com. (4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (5) You may view this material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locationsoremailfr.inspection@nara.gov. Issued on October 24, 2024. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2024–25979 Filed 11–8–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2024–0767; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00723–T; Amendment 39–22786; AD 2024–14–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes AGENCY : Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION : Final rule. SUMMARY : The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc., Model BD–700–2A12 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports that the baggage bay discharge push-button annunciator (PBA) switch was making contact but was not fully engaged, and the tabs were not fully locked. This AD requires a verification of the baggage bay discharge PBA functionality and tab installation. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES : This AD is effective December 17, 2024. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 17, 2024. ADDRESSES : AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–0767; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), 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. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For Bombardier material, contact Bombardier Business Aircraft Customer Response Center, 400 Co ˆ te-Vertu Road West, Dorval, Que ´bec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–2999; email ac.yul@ aero.bombardier.com; website bombardier.com . • You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. It is also available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–0767. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT : William Reisenauer, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: 516–228–7300; email: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION : Background The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Bombardier, Inc., Model BD–700–2A12 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 28, 2024 (89 FR 21443). The NPRM was prompted by AD CF–2023– 36, dated May 29, 2023, issued by Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada (referred to after this as the MCAI). The MCAI states that during the execution of a functional test procedure (FTP) during production, the baggage bay discharge PBA switch was partially engaged and failed to make electrical contact. Further investigation showed that in some instances, the baggage bay discharge PBA switch was making contact but was not fully engaged and the tabs were not fully locked, so while the PBA may pass the FTP, vibration could eventually lead to a loss of electrical contact and subsequent loss of baggage bay discharge PBA switch functionality. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require a verification of the baggage bay discharge PBA functionality and tab installation. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the possible inability to discharge halon into the baggage compartment in case of a fire. The unsafe condition on these products, if not addressed, could result in the inability to control a baggage compartment fire. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–0767. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Nov 08, 2024 Jkt 265001 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\12NOR1.SGM 12NOR1 khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES

88887 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 218 / Tuesday, November 12, 2024 / Rules and Regulations Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on this product. Except for minor editorial changes, this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on any operator. Related Material Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–26–7505, dated February 10, 2023. This service information specifies procedures for doing a general visual inspection of the baggage bay discharge PBA switch for proper installation and a functional operation test. 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. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 42 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: E STIMATED C OSTS FOR R EQUIRED A CTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators 2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .......................................................................................... $0 $170 $7,140 The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. According to the manufacturer, however, some or all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected operators. 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 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. 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 ■ 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. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: 2024–14–05 Bombardier, Inc.: Amendment 39–22786; Docket No. FAA–2024–0767; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00723–T. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 17, 2024. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc., Model BD–700–2A12 airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers 70006 through 70099 inclusive. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 26, Fire protection. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports that the baggage bay discharge push-button annunciator (PBA) switch was making contact but was not fully engaged, and the tabs were not fully locked. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the possible inability to discharge halon into the baggage compartment in case of a fire. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in the inability to control a baggage compartment fire. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD: Perform the inspection and testing of the baggage bay discharge PBA switch, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–26–7505, dated February 10, 2023. (h) Additional AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): 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 responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, mail it to the address identified in paragraph (i) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Nov 08, 2024 Jkt 265001 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\12NOR1.SGM 12NOR1 khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES

88888 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 218 / Tuesday, November 12, 2024 / Rules and Regulations Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA; or Transport Canada; or Bombardier, Inc.’s Transport Canada Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the approval must include the DAO-authorized signature. (i) Additional Information For more information about this AD, contact William Reisenauer, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: 516–228– 7300; email: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Bombardier Service Bulletin 700–26– 7505, dated February 10, 2023. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For Bombardier material identified in this AD, contact Bombardier Business Aircraft Customer Response Center, 400 Co ˆ te- Vertu Road West, Dorval, Que ´bec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–2999; email ac.yul@aero.bombardier.com; website bombardier.com. (4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (5) You may view this material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations, or email fr.inspection@ nara.gov. Issued on July 10, 2024. James D. Foltz, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. Editorial Note: This document was received for publication by the Office of the Federal Register on November 5, 2024. [FR Doc. 2024–25978 Filed 11–8–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 38 CFR Part 70 RIN 2900–AS19 Changes in Rates VA Pays for Special Modes of Transportation; Delay of Effective Date From February 16, 2025, Until February 16, 2029 AGENCY : Department of Veterans Affairs. ACTION : Final rule; delay of effective date. SUMMARY : The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) published in the Federal Register on February 16, 2023, a final rule to amend its beneficiary travel regulations to establish a new payment methodology for special modes of transportation available through the VA beneficiary travel program. The preamble of that final rule stated the effective date was February 16, 2024. VA published in the Federal Register on December 29, 2023, a final rule to delay the effective date for the rule from February 16, 2024, to February 16, 2025. This rulemaking further delays the effective date of February 16, 2025, to February 16, 2029. DATES : Effective Date: The effective date for the final rule published February 16, 2023, at 88 FR 10032, and delayed on December 29, 2023, at 88 FR 90120, until February 16, 2025, is further delayed until February 16, 2029. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT : Ben Williams, Director, Veterans Transportation Program (15MEM), Veterans Health Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420, (404) 828–5691. (This is not a toll-free number.) SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION : On November 5, 2020, VA proposed amending its beneficiary travel regulations to implement the discretionary authority in 38 U.S.C. 111(b)(3)(C), which permits VA to pay the lesser of the actual charge for ambulance transportation or the amount determined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Medicare Part B Ambulance Fee Schedule (hereafter referred to the CMS ambulance fee schedule) established under section 1834(l) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(l)), unless VA has entered into a contract for that transportation. We provided a 60-day comment period that ended on January 4, 2021, and we received six comments, five of which were substantive. Those five comments all raised similar concerns about 38 CFR 70.30(a)(4) introductory text and (a)(4)(i) and (ii) as proposed, related to using the CMS ambulance fee schedule or, in the case of travel by modes other than ambulance, the posted rates from each State. We responded to all comments in a final rule published in the Federal Register on February 16, 2023 (88 FR 10032), wherein we stated that we would not make changes from the proposed rule related to application of the CMS ambulance fee schedule but would delay the effective date of the final rule by one year (to be February 16, 2024) to ensure that ambulance providers have adequate time to adjust to VA’s new methodology for calculating ambulance rates. (88 FR 10035). We further stated in the final rule that such adjustment could include ambulance providers entering negotiations with VA to contract for payment rates different than those under the CMS ambulance fee schedule, as contemplated in the final rule. After the final rule was published, VA received feedback from both internal and external stakeholders, including VA employees, ambulance providers, and industry experts, that more time would be necessary for successful implementation of the rule. Specifically, delaying the effective date was intended to accommodate unforeseen difficulties in air ambulance broker contracting. At the time, VA believed it would be able to enter into contracts and/or subcontract relationships with air ambulance service providers for non-VA initiated service calls if given more time for negotiations. Based on this feedback and evaluation of the continued effort that would be required by air ambulance brokers to negotiate and enter into contracts before February 16, 2024, VA published a final rule on December 29, 2023, (88 FR 90120) that delayed the effective date of the regulation by one year to February 16, 2025. After the final rule delaying the effective date to February 2025 was published, however, VA learned through continued discussions with industry experts, including air ambulance providers and brokers, that contracting for emergency, non-VA initiated air transportation is not feasible at this time. Impediments include the lack of air industry infrastructure for air ambulance brokers to enter into subcontracts with providers for non-VA initiated ambulance transports, as well as the general lack of authority of non-VA individuals to enter into orders or other contractually binding agreements for transportation on behalf of VA. Air ambulance providers contend that the Medicare reimbursement rate that VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:54 Nov 08, 2024 Jkt 265001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\12NOR1.SGM 12NOR1 khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES