Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-15635 · PZL Swidnik S. A. Model W-3A Helicopters
PZL Swidnik S. A. Model W-3A Helicopters
This AD applies to Model W-3A helicopters, all serial numbers, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the PZL Swidnik S. A. (PZL) Model W-3A helicopters. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community. The MCAI states: "In PZL W-3A helicopter S/N 37.07.05, and previously also in the PZL W-3AS model helicopters, leakage was found in the pipe 37.59.006.00.00 installed in the pressure line of hydraulic system 2, in the part between the hydraulic block and the ground hydraulic unit panel. The hydraulic system in the part between hydraulic blocks and the ground hydraulic unit panel is used only during periodical inspections, for the performance of which it is required to use the hydraulic power unit. This condition, if not corrected, could result in a fire hazard." The actions specified in this AD are intended to prevent this unsafe condition.
Within the next 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 3 months, whichever occurs first, modify hydraulic systems 1 and 2 between the hydraulic blocks and the hydraulic ground unit panel by disconnecting the pipes, part number (P/N) 37.59.233.00.00 and P/N 37.59.234.00.00, from the hydraulic blocks, plugging the blocks and disconnected pipes, and securing the pipes, as specified in section II, page 3, of PZL-Świdnik S. A. (PZL) Mandatory Bulletin No. BO-37-07-192, dated January 12, 2007.
(f) When the use of the hydraulic ground unit panel is necessary for maintenance, for the duration of the maintenance activity, you may temporarily remove the security tape and clips, unplug the pipes and blocks, and reconnect the pipes that were disconnected in accordance with paragraph (e) of this AD.
(g) At your discretion, modify both hydraulic systems by replacing pipes, P/N 37.59.233.00.00 and P/N 37.59.234.00.00, with pipes, P/N 37.59.333.00.00 and P/N 37.59.334.00.00, respectively, and install a check valve, P/N 37.59.336.00.00, in each hydraulic system in accordance with Section II, page 2, of PZL Technical Bulletin No. BT-37-07-196, dated April 24, 2007 (PZL TB).
Note: The PZL TB inconsistently refers to various P/Ns as either “pipes” or “hoses.” For consistency in the terminology in this AD, we refer to all these P/Ned “hoses” as “pipes.”
(h) Modifying both hydraulic systems by replacing the pipes and installing check valves as specified in paragraph (g) of this AD constitute terminating action for the requirements of this AD.
(i) This AD differs from the MCAI in that it:
(1) Only applies to Model W-3A helicopters because the Model W-3AS helicopters do not have a U.S. type certificate; and
(2) Does not allow compliance to be completed in accordance with “later approved revisions” of the service information.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, ATTN: Uday Garadi, Aerospace Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-0110, telephone (817) 222-5123, fax (817) 222-5961, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
