Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-16266 · Eurocopter France Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D, and D1; AS 355E, F, F1, F2, N, and NP Helicopters
Eurocopter France Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D, and D1; AS 355E, F, F1, F2, N, and NP Helicopters
This AD applies to Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, C, D and D1; and AS 355E, F, F1, F2, N, and NP helicopters with a Goodrich Electric hoist, part number (P/N) 76370-XXX, which has not been modified per Modification (MOD) 073318 and with a hoist motor other than an AUXILEC, installed, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) model helicopters. This AD results from a mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) AD issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community. The MCAI AD was issued following the discovery of a potential risk of an untimely squib firing that would cut the hoist cable. A short circuit in the hoist motor brush power supply wiring resulting in an uncommanded squib firing, which cuts the hoist cable, constitutes an unsafe condition.
Before the next hoist operation, unless already accomplished, disconnect the ground wire for the hoist squib wiring and test the hoist system to assure that the squib can be electrically fired (MOD 073318) by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Paragraph 2.B.1. through 2.B.4., of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 25.00.95, for the AS350 model helicopters or ASB No. 25.00.85, for the AS355 model helicopters, both dated November 16, 2005, as appropriate for your model helicopter.
This AD differs from the MCAI AD in that it:
(1) Does not include the Model BB helicopters but does include the Model AS350C and D1 and Model AS355NP helicopters;
(2) Does not require the actions specified in the Compliance section, paragraph 1 of the MCAI AD;
(3) Does not address spares; and
(4) Requires compliance before the next hoist operation instead of within 30 days.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, ATTN: George Schwab, Aerospace Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-0112, telephone (817) 222-5114, fax (817) 222-5961, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(h) Special Flight Permits: Special flight permits may be issued under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate the helicopter to a location where the requirements of this AD can be done provided that the hoist is not used.
