Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model SA. 315B Helicopters

Samenvatting

This document proposes the supersedure of an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to Eurocopter France Model SA. 315B helicopters, that currently requires an initial and repetitive visual inspections and modification, if necessary, of the horizontal stabilizer spar tube (spar tube). This action would require the same corrective actions as the existing AD, and would require an additional dye-penetrant inspection of the half-shell attachment clamps (clamps). This proposal is prompted by an in-service report of fatigue cracks that initiated from corrosion pits. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of the spar tube, separation of the horizontal stabilizer and impact with the main or tail rotor, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.