Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-04-15, which applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters; and certain Model AS350B3 helicopters. AD 2021-04-15 requires repetitive visual inspections of the right-hand side of the vertical fin spar for discrepancies (cracking), and corrective action if necessary. Since the FAA issued AD 2021-04-15, the FAA has determined that additional actions are required to address the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2021-04-15, and would require repetitive cleaning and repetitive detailed inspections for cracking of the vertical fin spar and vertical fin upper attachments, and corrective action if necessary, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). This proposed AD would also expand the applicability to include additional Model AS350B3 helicopters. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.