Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-21575 · Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters
Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters
This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Bell Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model 429 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a Bell Emergency Flotation System (EFS) kit part number (P/N) 429-706-069-101/-103/-105/-121/-123/-125/-139/-141/-143/or -157 manufactured before July 2019, with a float supply hose manufactured before January 2014, installed, except for float supply hoses marked with “SB 025-69-21” above the external identification marking.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model 429 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting certain serial-numbered Emergency Flotation System (EFS) inflation hoses and depending on the results of those inspections, marking certain parts or removing certain parts from service. This AD was prompted by a report that a float compartment on an EFS did not inflate. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
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) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS):
(i) Remove each EFS supply hose from the float and inspect each end of the EFS supply hose by inserting a plastic cable tie, 300 mm minimum × 5 mm maximum (11.811 in. minimum ×.196 in. maximum), into the holes of the related fitting as shown in Figure 1 of Safran Aerosystems Services Service Bulletin No. 025-69-21, Revision 00, dated March 23, 2020 (SB 025-69-21).
Note 1 to paragraph (e)(1)(i): Each end of the supply hose may also be referred to as fitting or banjo.
(ii) If the cable tie does not pass through the hose, before further flight, remove the EFS supply hose from service and replace it with an airworthy part.
(iii) If the cable tie passes through the supply hose, mark a green dot with indelible ink on the base of the supply hose and write “SB 025-69-21” above the external identification marking of the EFS with indelible ink.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install an EFS supply hose manufactured before January 2014 on any helicopter unless the requirements in paragraph (e)(1) of this AD have been completed.
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.
