Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-15597 · Agusta S.p.A. Model AB 139 and AW 139 Helicopters
Agusta S.p.A. Model AB 139 and AW 139 Helicopters
Superseded. A later AD replaced this one: AD 2008-14-02 R1. Comply with the one in force.
This AD applies to Agusta S.p.A. Model AB 139 and AW 139 helicopters, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta S.p.A. Model AB 139 and AW 139 helicopters. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the Technical Agent for Italy, with which we have a bilateral agreement, which indicates that the Agusta AB 139's and AW 139's Fuselage Frame 5700 middle section is prone to fatigue damage. The actions are intended to detect cracks in the fuselage frame structure and to prevent structural failure in this area.
Required as indicated, unless already done.
(1) Within the next 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), or upon accumulating 100 hours TIS since new, whichever occurs later, inspect the fuselage frame 5700 middle section in accordance with the Compliance Instructions, pargraphs 1. through 4., of Agusta Bollettino Tecnico No. 139-018, Revision B, dated October 18, 2006;
(2) Thereafter, at intervals not exceeding 100 hours TIS, repeat the inspection as required by paragraph (e)(1) of this AD.
(3) If a crack is found, before further flight, repair the crack in accordance with an FAA-approved procedure.
This AD differs from the MCAI as follows:
(1) The MCAI states “When damage or cracks are found, before next flight, contact the TC Holder for further instructions.” If a crack is found, this AD requires repairing the crack before further flight in accordance with an FAA-approved procedure.
(2) This AD requires that the inspection be performed based on “hours time-in-service” not “flight hours.”
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, FAA, ATTN: Sharon Miles, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Regulations and Guidance Group, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-0111, telephone (817) 222-5122, fax (817) 222-5961, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
