47 Airworthiness Directives: 26 airplane, 18 rotorcraft, 3 engine.
AD 2013-18-08 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2004-18-06 for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. AD 2004-18-06 required repetitive inspections to find fatigue cracking of certain upper and lower skin panels of the fuselage, and follow-on and corrective actions if necessary. AD 2004- 18-06 also included a terminating action for the repetitive inspections of certain modified or repaired areas only. This new AD adds new inspections for cracking of the fuselage skin along certain chem-milled lines, and corrective actions if necessary. This new AD also reduces certain thresholds and intervals required by AD 2004-18-06. This AD was prompted by new findings of vertical cracks along chem-milled steps adjacent to the butt joints. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the skin panels, which could result in sudden fracture and failure of the skin panels of the fuselage, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane.
AD 2013-19-08 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 727 airplanes; Model 737-100, -200, and -200C series airplanes; and Model 747-100, -100B, -100B SUD, -200B, -200C, - 200F, -300, -400, -400D, -400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of an activation of the control column shaker during takeoff. This AD requires performing a general visual inspection to determine if a certain angle of attack (AOA) sensor with a paddle type vane is installed, and, for affected sensors, performing an operational test of the stall warning system, and replacing the AOA sensor with a new sensor if necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous activation of the control column shaker during takeoff, which could result in runway overrun, failure to clear terrain or obstacles after takeoff, or reduced controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-19-09 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2012-26-51 for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2012- 26-51 required revising the airplane flight manual (AFM) to advise the flightcrew of emergency procedures for addressing angle of attack (AoA) sensor blockage, and also provided for optional terminating action for the AFM revision, which involves replacing AoA sensor conic plates with AoA sensor flat plates. This new AD requires replacing AoA sensor conic plates with AoA sensor flat plates, and subsequent removal of the AFM revision. This AD was prompted by a determination that replacement of AoA sensor conic plates is necessary to address the identified unsafe condition. We are issuing this AD to prevent reduced control of the airplane.
AD 2013-19-13 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, and 747SP series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of worn or incorrectly assembled latches on main deck escape slides installed on airplane doors. This AD requires determining if the latches are correctly assembled; and doing corrective actions if necessary. This AD also requires, for certain airplanes, modifications to the escape slide/rafts and escape slides. We are issuing this AD to prevent a latch hook moving from closed to open in an escape slide/raft or escape slide, which could result in the escape slide/raft or escape slide not deploying correctly in an emergency, or releasing/inflating into the passenger cabin and causing injury to passengers and crew.
AD 2013-19-15 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747-100, -100B, -100B SUD, -200B, -200C, - 200F, -300, -400, -400D, -400F, and 747SR series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking at the aft upper corner of the main entry door (MED) 5 cutout. This AD requires inspecting for the presence of repairs and measuring the edge margin at certain fastener locations around the upper aft corner of the door cutout, inspecting for any cracking of the fuselage skin assembly and bear strap in the aft upper corner area of the door cutout, and repairing or modifying the fuselage skin assembly and bear strap if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the skin and bear straps at the aft upper corner of the MED 5 cutout, which could result in in-flight depressurization.
AD 2013-19-22 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 717-200 airplanes. This AD was prompted by multiple reports of cracks of overwing frames. This AD requires repetitive inspections for cracking of the overwing frames, and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct such cracking that could sever a frame, which may increase the loading of adjacent frames, and result in damage to the adjacent structure and consequent loss of structural integrity of the airplane.
AD 2013-19-20 · published Oct 3, 2013, effective Nov 7, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model DC-10-10 and MD-10-10F airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that the safe life limit on certain main landing gear (MLG) upper torque link bolts is reduced significantly due to those bolts being fabricated from bar stock with a machined head instead of from a forged blank with an upset head. This AD requires replacing certain MLG upper torque link bolts with new or serviceable parts. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the MLG and consequent damage to airplane structure, which could adversely affect the airplane's continued safe flight and landing.
AD 2013-19-23 · published Oct 3, 2013, effective Nov 7, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a new revision to the airworthiness limitations of the maintenance planning data (MPD) document. This AD requires revising the maintenance program to update inspection requirements to detect fatigue cracking of principal structural elements (PSEs). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of various principal structural elements (PSEs), which could adversely affect the structural integrity of these airplanes.
AD 2013-20-09 · published Oct 3, 2013, effective Oct 18, 2013
Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-215-6B11 (CL-415 Variant) airplanes. This AD requires replacing the panel assembly of the main distribution center (MDC) rack. This AD was prompted by findings of chafed power wires due to flexing of the MDC rack panel. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to power wires, which could cause simultaneous loss of systems such as electrical power, pilot indications, and caution/advisory lighting systems, which are essential for safe flight.
AD 2013-20-12 · published Oct 3, 2013, effective Nov 7, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 767 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks and heat damage on pivot joint components found during main landing gear (MLG) overhaul. This AD requires, for certain airplanes, repetitive inspections of the MLG pivots, truck beam bushings, and inner cylinder bushings. For all airplanes, this AD requires a maintenance program revision, one-time inspections of the MLG truck beam, and related investigative and corrective actions (including configuration changes) if necessary; accomplishment of these actions terminates the repetitive inspections. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct heat damage and cracks in the pivot pin, truck beam lugs, and inner cylinder lugs, which could result in fracture of the pivot joint components and consequent MLG collapse.
AD 2013-21-03 · published Oct 25, 2013, effective Nov 12, 2013
the Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747-8F and 747-8 series airplanes. This AD requires a detailed inspection of the power control actuator (PCA) installation to determine if a bushing is installed, a general visual inspection between the horizontal stabilizer rear spar and the elevator front spar and between certain stabilizer stations for defects and damage, and corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by a report of unusual noise coming from the left inboard elevator during a functional check of the ram air turbine system, and a determination that a bushing was not installed. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct non-installation of bushings. If the bushings are not present, the stiffness of the load path will be decreased, which will cause wear of adjacent parts and increased freeplay of the elevator surfaces. Freeplay that exceeds acceptable limits could result in divergent flutter for certain maneuvers, which could lead to loss of controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-20-06 · published Oct 28, 2013, effective Nov 12, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A340-211 -212, -213, -311, -312, -313, -541, and -642 airplanes. This AD requires revising the maintenance program to incorporate certain maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. This AD was prompted by a determination that existing maintenance requirements are not adequate to address the unsafe condition. We are issuing this AD to address the aging effects of aircraft systems. Such aging effects could change the characteristics of systems life-limited components leading to an increased potential for failure, which, in isolation or in combination with one or more other specific failures or events, could result in failure of certain life limited parts, which could reduce the structural integrity or the controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-20-10 · published Oct 28, 2013, effective Dec 2, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2000-12-11, for certain Model A300 B4-600 and Model A300 B4-600R series airplanes. AD 2000-12-11 required repetitive inspections to detect cracks in the bolt holes inboard and outboard of rib 9 on the bottom booms of the front and rear wing spars, and repair if necessary. This new AD reduces the initial inspection compliance time and repetitive inspection interval. This AD was prompted by a fleet survey and an updated fatigue and damage tolerance analysis indicating a high risk for fatigue cracking on the front and rear spar bottom booms. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the bolt holes of the wing spars, which could result in reduced structural integrity of a wing spar.
AD 2013-20-11 · published Oct 28, 2013, effective Dec 2, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a determination that oxygen generators installed on a certain batch of passenger emergency oxygen container assemblies might become detached by extreme pulling of the mask tube at the end of the oxygen supply causing a high temperature oxygen generator and mask to fall down. This AD requires modifying the passenger emergency oxygen container assembly. We are issuing this AD to prevent a high temperature oxygen generator and mask from falling down and possibly resulting in an ignition source in the passenger compartment, injury to passengers, and reduced availability of supplemental oxygen.
AD 2013-20-14 · published Oct 28, 2013, effective Dec 2, 2013
the Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain the Boeing Company Model 747-400 and -400F series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of cracks on airplanes prior to line number 1308 in the forward and aft inner chords of the station (STA) 2598 bulkhead, and the bulkhead upper and lower webs. This AD requires, as applicable, repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) and low frequency eddy current (LFEC) inspections for cracks in the splice fitting, support frame, forward and aft inner chords, floor support, bulkhead upper web on the upper left and right side of the bulkhead, and the bulkhead lower web on the lower left side of the bulkhead and repair if necessary; and repetitive post-repair inspections and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the splice fitting, support frame, floor support, forward and aft inner chords, and the bulkhead upper and lower webs of the STA 2598 bulkhead, which could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane.
AD 2013-20-04 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a determination that certain special washers used in the bearing installation of the retraction jack anchorage fitting in the main landing gear (MLG) were incorrectly manufactured. This AD requires an inspection of the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) bearing assemblies of the MLG retraction jack anchorage fitting to verify that the special washer is seated correctly, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct installation of incorrectly manufactured special washers, which could lead to a local stress concentration resulting in possible reduction of the fatigue life of the jack fitting, and consequent reduction of the structural integrity of the affected MLG.
AD 2013-21-07 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 727 airplanes. This AD was prompted by certain mandated programs intended to support the airplane reaching its limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the established structural maintenance program. This AD requires, for certain airplanes, a modification of the web of the horizontal stabilizer center section rear spar. For the other airplanes, this AD requires an inspection for cracks in the web, and repair or modification as applicable. We are issuing this AD to prevent cracking at the upper fastener holes in the riveted web in the horizontal stabilizer center section rear spar, which could result in failure of the spar forging and lead to horizontal stabilizer separation and loss of control of the airplane.
AD 2013-21-08 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
ATR-GIE Avions de Transport Régional Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain ATR--GIE Avions de Transport R[eacute]gional Model ATR72-101, -201, - 102, -202, -211, -212, and -212A airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of airplane incidents and accidents that have occurred because of low-level fuel tank situations and fuel starvation that resulted in engine flameouts. This AD requires installing a fuel quantity indicator (FQI) equipped with a locking adaptor on the electrical connector. We are issuing this AD to prevent an engine flame-out, which could result in reduced controllability of the airplane.
AD 2013-22-02 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Airbus Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-300 series airplanes and Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of corrosion found on certain trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuators (THSA), affecting the ballscrew lower splines between the tie bar and the screw-jack. This AD requires repetitive detailed inspections for corrosion of certain THSAs, ballscrew integrity tests if necessary; and replacing any affected THSA with a serviceable or new and improved THSA, if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct corrosion of the THSAs, which could lead, in the case of ballscrew rupture, to the loss of transmission of THSA torque loads from the ballscrew to the tie-bar, prompting THSA blowback, and possibly resulting in loss of control of the airplane.
AD 2013-22-03 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 727 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports indicating that a standard fuel tank access door was located where an impact-resistant access door was required, and stencils were missing from some impact-resistant access doors. This AD requires an inspection of the left- and right-hand wing fuel tank access doors to determine that impact-resistant access doors are installed in the correct locations, and to replace any door with an impact-resistant access door if necessary. This AD also requires an inspection for stencils and index markers on impact-resistant access doors, and application of new stencils or index markers if necessary. This AD also requires revising the maintenance program to incorporate changes to the airworthiness limitations section. We are issuing this AD to prevent foreign object penetration of the fuel tank, which could cause a fuel leak near an ignition source (e.g., hot brakes), consequently leading to a fuel-fed fire.
AD 2013-22-04 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-102, -103, and -106 airplanes; and Model DHC-8-200, -300, and -400 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of excessive wear found in the clevis (bolt) hole where the rod assembly attaches to the rudder/brake pedal bellcrank, due to prolonged fretting. This AD requires measuring the bellcrank clevis holes, inspecting for cracking of the bellcrank, and re-working the clevis holes with steel bushings, or replacing the bellcrank. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct a worn or cracked clevis hole, which could cause failure of the bellcrank on one side, with subsequent asymmetric braking and consequent runway excursion.
AD 2013-22-05 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model CL-600-2B16 (CL-601-3A, CL-601-3R, and CL-604 Variants) airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of airspeed mismatch between the pilot and co-pilot's airspeed indicators, which occurred during or after heavy rain. This AD requires, for certain airplanes, inspecting for drain bottles having certain part numbers, and replacing affected drain bottles. This AD requires, for certain other airplanes, replacing drain bottles. We are issuing this AD to prevent pitot static tubing from becoming blocked by water, which if not corrected, could lead to erroneous airspeed and altitude indications, and consequent loss of control of the airplane.
AD 2013-22-06 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 94-13-06 for certain The Boeing Company Model 747 series airplanes. AD 94-13-06 required repetitive detailed inspections to detect cracking in certain fuselage upper deck tension ties, repair or modification of any cracked tension ties, and repetitive inspections of repaired and modified tension ties and repair or modification if necessary. AD 94-13-06 also provided for optional terminating action for the repetitive detailed inspections of tension ties that had not been repaired or modified. This new AD retains the repetitive inspections, mandates the previously optional terminating modification, and adds, for tension ties that have not been repaired or modified, repetitive inspections that must be done concurrently with the existing repetitive inspections. This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder indicating that the upper deck tension ties of the fuselage are subject to widespread fatigue damage. We are issuing this AD to prevent widespread fatigue damage of certain fuselage upper deck tension ties, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
AD 2013-22-07 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
The Boeing Company Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747-400 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of fasteners missing on an airplane undergoing a passenger- to-freighter conversion. This AD requires doing a general visual inspection of the station 1920 splice clip for correct fastener installation, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct missing or incorrect fasteners, which can lead to cracking and loss of load carrying capacity, resulting in a possible decompression event.
AD 2013-22-08 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all BAE Systems (Operations) Limited Model BAe 146 and Avro 146-RJ series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a cracked pick-up bracket of the forward outboard pylon of the number 1 engine due to stress corrosion. This AD requires repetitive inspections and, depending on findings, repair of the pylon pick-up brackets. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the pick-up bracket, which could result in the engine pylon separating from the wing, with consequent damage to the airplane and reduced controllability.
AD 2013-22-09 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of movement of the rudder pedals being impeded due to corrosion of the trunnion shaft of the rudder feel trim unit (RFTU). This AD requires an inspection to determine if certain RFTUs are installed, an operational check for signs of seizure of affected parts, repetitive lubrication of certain RFTUs, and replacement of the RFTU if necessary. Installing replacement RFTUs having conformal bushings terminates the repetitive lubrication requirements. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct any sign of rough movement or seizure of the trunnion shaft and its bushing, which could cause a rudder control jam or a large and rapid alternating rudder input leading to a structural failure of the vertical fin.
AD 2013-15-01 · published Oct 1, 2013, effective Oct 16, 2013
AgustaWestland S.p.A. (Agusta) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. This AD requires deactivating the Full Icing Protection System (FIPS) and installing a placard next to the FIPS controller stating that flight into known icing is prohibited. This AD is prompted by a report of a fire in the aft avionics bay and the baggage compartment resulting from an Auto Transformer Rectifier Unit internal circuit overload. These actions are intended to prevent a fire, structural damage, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-19-05 · published Oct 1, 2013, effective Nov 5, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc., Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (Bell), Model 214B, 214B-1, and 214ST helicopters. This AD requires creating a component history card or equivalent record for certain pylon support spindle assemblies (spindles), establishes a new retirement life for spindles installed on Model 214B and 214B-1 helicopters, reduces the retirement life for spindles installed on Model 214ST helicopters, and requires replacing any spindle that has reached its airworthiness retirement life. This AD was prompted by three in-flight failures of the spindle that resulted in forced landings. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent failure of a spindle and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-19-06 · published Oct 1, 2013, effective Nov 5, 2013
Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson)
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Robinson Model R22, R22 Alpha, R22 Beta, and R22 Mariner helicopters with certain fuel shut-off valves installed. This AD requires replacing the fuel shut-off valve with a newer design fuel shut-off valve. This AD is prompted by three accidents that occurred because the fuel shut- off valve was inadvertently moved to the "off" position. These actions are intended to prevent inadvertent closing of the fuel valve, which could result in engine power loss from which a safe landing may not be possible.
AD 2013-19-19 · published Oct 1, 2013, effective Oct 16, 2013
Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter Model AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters. This AD requires replacing certain serial-numbered main gearbox (MGB) bevel gear vertical shafts because they are no longer airworthy. Also, this AD requires certain inspections of each MGB bevel gear vertical shaft (shaft) for a crack. Also, this AD requires if there is a crack, replacing the shaft with an airworthy part before further flight. This AD is prompted by two incidents of emergency ditching after warning indications of loss of MGB oil pressure. These actions are intended to detect a cracked shaft, which could result in loss of MGB oil pressure, loss of the MGB lubrication system, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-19-07 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters with certain EADS Sogerma pilot and co-pilot seats installed. This AD requires inspecting the rear beam of each seat to determine if all of the weld beads are present and replacing the seat if any weld bead is missing. This AD is prompted by a maintenance inspection that discovered a missing weld bead on the rear beam of a pilot seat. These actions are intended to prevent failure of the pilot and co-pilot seats and subsequent injury to the pilot or co-pilot.
AD 2013-19-16 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-92A helicopters to require modifying the No. 1 engine forward firewall center fire extinguisher discharge tube (No. 1 engine tube) and inspecting the outboard discharge tube to determine if it is correctly positioned. This AD was prompted by the discovery that the No. 1 engine tube installed on the helicopters is too long to ensure that a fire could be effectively extinguished in the helicopter. The actions are intended to ensure the No. 1 engine tube allows for complete coverage of an extinguishing agent in the No. 1 engine compartment area, ensure that a fire would be extinguished and prevent the loss of helicopter control.
AD 2013-20-18 · published Oct 25, 2013, effective Nov 29, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (Bell) Helicopters
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2009-05-09 for Bell Model 412, 412CF, and 412EP helicopters. AD 2009-05-09 required reidentifying each affected part-numbered main rotor yoke (yoke) on its data plate, reducing the retirement life of the reidentified yoke, and revising the Airworthiness Limitations section of the maintenance manual or the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICAs) accordingly. This new AD retains the requirements of AD 2009-05-09 with the exception of the P/N marking location. This AD was prompted by fatigue analysis that shows the retirement life should be reduced on certain yokes. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these helicopters.
AD 2013-20-51 · published Oct 25, 2013, effective Oct 25, 2013
AgustaWestland S.p.A. (Agusta) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters. The emergency AD was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. This AD requires, before further flight, inspecting certain Thomas coupling nuts on the tail rotor drive shaft line for a crack and replacing all the nuts if any nut is cracked. Also this AD requires replacing all affected Thomas coupling nuts within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 30 days, whichever occurs first. This AD was prompted by two incidents of cracking on the nuts that connect the flexible disc coupling (Thomas coupling) with the splined adapter on the tail rotor drive shaft. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these helicopters.
AD 2013-21-01 · published Oct 25, 2013, effective Oct 25, 2013
Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, AS350D, AS350D1, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters. This AD requires certain inspections of each tail rotor pitch horn assembly (pitch horn) for a crack, and if there is a crack, before further flight, replacing the pitch horn with an airworthy pitch horn. This AD is prompted by a report of a crack in the yoke of a pitch horn. These actions are intended to detect a crack in the pitch horn to prevent failure of the pitch horn, loss of the anti-torque function, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-19-24 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
MD Helicopters, Inc., Helicopters
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2003-08-51 for MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI), Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 369F and 369FF helicopters with certain MDHI or Helicopter Technology Company (HTC) tail rotor blades installed. AD 2003-08-51 required reducing the retirement life of each tail rotor blade (blade), performing a one-time visual inspection of each blade's pitch horn (pitch horn) for a crack or corrosion, and replacing any cracked blade or any blade that has exceeded its retirement life with an airworthy blade. AD 2003-08-51 also required reporting information to the FAA within 24 hours following the one-time inspection. Since we issued AD 2003-08-51, an accident in England prompted an investigation that showed corrosion on the blade's pitch horn that had not been detected under the paint. This new AD retains some of the requirements of AD 2003-08-51 and also requires paint removal for all pitch horn inspections, inspecting for pitting and the shot peen surface's condition in addition to cracks and corrosion, and adds certain part- numbered blades to the applicability. These actions are intended to prevent a pitch horn from cracking, leading to vibration, loss of tail rotor pitch control, and subsequent loss of tail rotor and helicopter control.
AD 2013-20-01 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Agusta S.p.A. (Type Certificate Currently Held by AgustaWestland S.p.A) (Agusta) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta Model A109A, A109AII, and A109C helicopters with a certain third stage turbine wheel installed. This AD requires installing a placard on the instrument panel and revising the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM). This AD was prompted by several incidents of third stage engine turbine wheel failures, which were caused by excessive vibrations at certain engine speeds during steady-state operations. These actions are intended to alert pilots to avoid certain engine speeds during steady-state operations, prevent failure of the third stage engine turbine, engine power loss, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-20-02 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Model 230 helicopters. This AD requires installing a placard on the instrument panel and revising the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM). This AD was prompted by several incidents of third stage engine turbine wheel failures, which were caused by excessive vibrations at certain engine speeds during steady-state operations. These actions are intended to alert pilots to avoid certain engine speeds during steady-state operations, prevent failure of the third stage engine turbine, engine power loss, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-20-03 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Model 430 helicopters. This AD requires installing a placard on the instrument panel and revising the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM). This AD was prompted by several incidents of third stage engine turbine wheel failures, which were caused by excessive vibrations at certain engine speeds during steady- state operations. These actions are intended to alert pilots to avoid certain engine speeds during steady-state operations, prevent failure of the third stage engine turbine, engine power loss, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-20-05 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Model 407 helicopters. This AD requires installing a placard beneath the NR/NP dual tachometer and revising the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM). This AD was prompted by several incidents of third stage engine turbine wheel failures, which were caused by excessive vibrations at certain engine speeds during steady- state operations. These actions are intended to alert pilots to avoid certain engine speeds during steady-state operations, prevent failure of the third stage engine turbine, engine power loss, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-20-15 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation-Manufactured (Sikorsky) Model Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held by Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated)
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-19-10 for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation-manufactured Model S-64E helicopters (type certificate currently held by Erickson Air-Crane Incorporated (Erickson)). AD 97-19-10 required inspecting and reworking the main gearbox (MGB) assembly second stage lower planetary plate (plate). This action establishes or reduces the life limits for certain flight- critical components, removes from service various parts, requires repetitive inspections and other corrective actions, and requires replacing any cracked part discovered during an inspection. This AD is prompted by further analysis performed by the current type certificate holder and the service history of certain parts. The actions specified in this AD are intended to prevent a crack in a flight critical component, failure of a critical part, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-20-16 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for MDHI Model MD900 helicopters with certain main rotor blade (MRB) retention bolts (bolts) installed. This AD requires a daily check of the position of each bolt, a daily check and a repetitive inspection for a gap in each bolt, and, if necessary, removing and inspecting the bolt for a crack and replacing any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt. This AD was prompted by multiple reports of in-service bolt failures. The actions are intended to prevent failure of a bolt, which could lead to loss of MRB structural integrity and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-21-05 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (Eurocopter) Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, T2, and T2+ helicopters. This AD requires inspecting each linear transducer bearing (bearing) for freedom of movement and replacing the bearing if there is binding or rough turning or if there is chafing or damage on the lower side of the floor. Also, this AD requires modifying and re-identifying a certain rod. This AD was prompted by an incident involving limited control of a tail rotor because of the binding of a bearing. The actions of this AD are intended to detect and replace each bearing subject to binding, which could lead to subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-22-01 · published Oct 31, 2013, effective Dec 5, 2013
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (Bell) Helicopters
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Model 206L-4 and 407 helicopters. This AD requires replacing or reworking certain aft bearing caps. This AD was prompted by the manufacture of certain freewheel aft bearing caps without a lubrication channel to allow oil flow into the aft bearing support assembly. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent failure of the freewheel unit and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
AD 2013-19-21 · published Oct 2, 2013, effective Nov 6, 2013
Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines
We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) AD 2012-04-13, for all Rolls-Royce plc (RR) model RB211 Trent 553-61, 553A2-61, 556- 61, 556A2-61, 556B-61, 556B2-61, 560-61, and 560A2-61; and RB211 Trent 768-60, 772-60, and 772B-60; and RB211-Trent 875-17, 877-17, 884-17, 884B-17, 892-17, 892B-17, and 895-17; and RB211-524G2-T-19, -524G3-T- 19, -524H-T-36, and -524H2-T-19 turbofan engines that have a high- pressure (HP) compressor stage 1 to 4 rotor disc installed, with a certain part number (P/N) installed. AD 2012-04-13 required repetitive inspections of the axial dovetail slots and follow-on corrective action depending on findings. This new AD expands the population of affected parts. This AD also changes, for the purposes of this AD, the definition of "engine shop visit." This AD was prompted by reports of additional affected HP compressor rotor discs that require the same action. We are issuing this AD to detect cracks in the HP compressor stage 1 and 2 disc posts, which could result in failure of the disc post and HP compressor blades, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane.
AD 2013-19-18 · published Oct 3, 2013, effective Nov 7, 2013
Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211-535E4-37, RB211-535E4-B-37, RB211-535E4-C- 37, and RB211-535E4-B-75 turbofan engines. This AD requires removal of affected parts using a drawdown plan. This AD was prompted by RR updating the low-cycle-fatigue life analysis for the low pressure turbine (LPT) stage 2 discs. We are issuing this AD to prevent LPT stage 2 disc failure, which could result in uncontained engine damage and damage to the airplane.
AD 2013-21-02 · published Oct 29, 2013, effective Nov 13, 2013
Lycoming Engines and Continental Motors, Inc. Reciprocating Engines
We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2012-24-09 for Lycoming Engines TIO-540-AK1A, and Continental Motors, Inc. (CMI) TSIO- 360-MB, TSIO-360-SB, and TSIO-360-RB reciprocating engines, with certain Hartzell Engine Technologies (HET) turbochargers, model TA0411, installed. AD 2012-24-09 required removing certain HET turbochargers from service before further flight. This AD also requires removing certain HET turbochargers from service before further flight. This AD was prompted by a report that an additional engine, the CMI LTSIO-360- RB, has the affected HET turbochargers installed. We are issuing this AD to prevent turbocharger turbine wheel failure, reduction or complete loss of engine power, loss of engine oil, oil fire, and damage to the airplane.
