Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-23245 · Main rotor gearbox
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters, certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports of a cracked main gearbox (MGB) support case. This AD requires revising the existing rotorcraft flight manual (RFM) for the helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Except as specified in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2024-0212, dated November 13, 2024 (EASA AD 2024-0212).
(1) Where EASA AD 2024-0212 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2024-0212 specifies to inform all flight crews and, thereafter, operate the helicopter accordingly, this AD does not require those actions as those actions are already required by existing FAA operating regulations (see 14 CFR 91.505 and 14 CFR 135.21).
(3) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2024-0212 specifies “the same content as defined in the SB”, this AD requires replacing that text with “information identical to that in Section II Normal Procedures as defined in the material referenced in EASA AD 2024-0212”.
Note 1 to paragraph (h)(3): The serial numbers in paragraph 1 of the ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS of Leonardo Helicopters Service Bulletin 412-163, dated January 27, 2021, reference the titles of the applicable Leonardo Flight Manuals.
(4) This AD does not adopt the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2024-0212.
Although the material referenced in EASA AD 2024-0212 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.
