Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-11252 · Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. Model 204B, 205A, and 205A-1 Helicopters
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. Model 204B, 205A, and 205A-1 Helicopters
Model 204B helicopters with vertical fin spar (fin spar), part number (P/N) 205-030-899-001, -089, P/N 205-030- 846-001, -003, -047, -049, or P/N 204-030-825-063, -065, installed, and Model 205A and 205A-1 helicopters, with fin spar, P/N 205-030- 899-101, P/N 205-030-846-087, -089, or P/N 205-032-851-003, -007, - 009, installed, certificated in any category.
This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (BHTI) Model 204B, 205A, and 205A-1 helicopters, that currently requires modifying and inspecting the vertical fin spar (fin spar) for cracks. This amendment requires modification and visual and dye-penetrant inspections of the fin spar for cracks, and if a crack is discovered, replacing the fin spar. A tapping test for disbonding and replacing certain fin spars within 12 calendar months is also required. This amendment is prompted by an accident involving a Model 205A-1 helicopter and four other accidents involving helicopters of similar type design. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of the fin spar, loss of the tail rotor, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
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.
