Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-23480 · Engine exhaust system
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters, certificated in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2026-0165, dated August 18, 2026 (EASA AD 2026-0165).
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a nozzle exhaust duct clamp separating from the engine nozzle duct and coming to rest on the tail rotor (TR) drive shaft. This AD requires repetitively inspecting certain clamp assemblies and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacing parts. This AD also prohibits the installation of an affected clamp assembly, unless certain requirements are met. 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, EASA AD 2026-0165.
(1) Where EASA AD 2026-0165 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2026-0165 requires compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(3) Where the material referenced in EASA AD 2026-0165 specifies “perform the detailed visual inspection for damage and crack(s)”, this AD requires replacing that text with “perform the detailed visual inspection for physical damage including, but not limited to, cracks, gouges, tears, bulges, fractures, distortions, and creases.”
(4) This AD does not adopt the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2026-0165.
Although EASA AD 2026-0165 and the material referenced in EASA AD 2026-0165 specifies to submit certain information and return parts to the manufacturer, this AD does not require those actions.
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
