Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-16910 · Elevator structure
Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters
Superseded. A later AD replaced this one: AD 2017-25-17. Comply with the one in force.
This AD applies to model A109S and AW109SP helicopters with elevator assemblies, part number (P/N) 109-0200-02-601, 109-0200-02-801, 109-0200-02-602, 109-0200-02-802, 109-0200-02-803, or 109-0200-02-804 installed, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) model A109S and AW109SP helicopters. This AD is prompted by a fatigue crack found in the left elevator assembly along the riveting of the upper skin to the fourth rib on an Agusta A109S helicopter. These actions are intended to detect a crack, which could lead to a failure of the elevator, reduced maneuverability of the helicopter, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time.
(1) For elevator assemblies with less than 400 hours time-in-service (TIS), upon or before reaching 400 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, inspect the left and right elevator upper skin along the 4th rib station rivet line from the leading edge to 200 mm inboard with a 10X or higher magnifying glass for a crack in the area depicted in Figure 1 of Agusta Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico (ABT) No. 109S-44 or 109SP-032, both dated August 5, 2011, for your model helicopter.
(2) For elevator assemblies with 400 or more hours TIS, within the next 30 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, inspect the left and right elevator upper skin along the 4th rib station rivet line from the leading edge to 200 mm inboard with a 10X or higher magnifying glass for a crack in the area depicted in Figure 1 of the ABT for your model helicopter.
(3) If there is a crack, replace the cracked elevator assembly with an airworthy elevator assembly before further flight.
The aircraft, engines and makers this AD names, by the model designations in its text. A model listed here may still be outside the AD's serial ranges.
Aircraft
