Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-15341 · Rotor flight controls
Eurocopter France Model SA332C, L, L1, and L2 Helicopters
This AD applies to Model AS332C, L, L1, and L2 helicopters, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (ECF) model helicopters. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The European Safety Agency (EASA), the Technical Agent for France, with which we have a bilateral agreement, states in the MCAI:
Within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS), unless already done, do the following actions:
(1) For each swashplate attachment bolt, part number 332A31-1340-21, having 500 or more hours time-in-service, inspect for tightening torque, wear, and a crack in each of these three bolts that attach the main servo controls to the nonrotating swashplate. Do this inspection by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B. and Figure 1, of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. 67.00.36, dated October 9, 2006 (ASB).
(2) If there is a crack in a bolt or if the differential wear on a bolt between areas F, G, and H (as depicted in Figure 1 of the ASB) is more than 0.005 millimeter, replace the bolt with an airworthy bolt before further flight.
We have changed the word “check” to “inspect” to more clearly indicate that we are requiring the work to be performed by a certificated mechanic. Also, this AD does not require that the operator send the information to the manufacturer as specified in the ASB.
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Uday Garadi, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Regulations and Guidance Group, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-0110, telephone (817) 222-5123, fax (817) 222-5961.
(2) Airworthy Product: Use only FAA-approved corrective actions. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent) if the State of Design has an appropriate bilateral agreement with the United States. You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-0056.
