Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-10463 · Eurocopter France Model SA 365N, N1 and AS 365N2 Helicopters
Eurocopter France Model SA 365N, N1 and AS 365N2 Helicopters
Superseded. A later AD replaced this one: AD 2006-06-02. Comply with the one in force.
Model SA-365N, N1, and AS-365N2 helicopter with main gearbox suspension diagonal cross-member (diagonal cross- member), part number (P/N) 365A38-3023-20, -21, -23, or -24, installed, certificated in any category.
This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) applicable to Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model SA-365N, N1 and AS- 365N2 helicopters that requires inspections of the main gearbox suspension diagonal cross-member (diagonal cross-member) for cracks, and removal of the diagonal cross-member and replacement with an airworthy diagonal cross-member if any crack is found. This amendment is prompted by several reports of the discovery of cracks in diagonal cross-members. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of the diagonal cross-member which could cause the main gearbox to pivot, resulting in severe vibrations and a subsequent forced landing.
