Applicability: Model AS 332 helicopters versions C, C1, L, and L1, equipped with plug doors.

Requirement: 1. Check for interference between the step of the middle-rail stop assembly and the plug door fitting, in accordance with paragraph 2.B. of Eurocopter AS 332 Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 52.00.33 R1. If no interference is evident, no further action is required.
2. In the case of plug doors where MOD 0725366 has not been embodied, that are affected by interference indicated by wear between the step of the rail of the stop assembly and the shaft of the fitting: If there is interference, with or without shaft rotation, comply with the instructions in paragraph 1.E.2.a.1. of ASB No. 52.00.33 R1. In all cases, opening and closing the plug door in flight is permitted only in an emergency in compliance with the instructions of Note 3 in paragraph 2 of ASB No. 52.00.33 R1. Affix a label to the immediate vicinity of the inner door handles, indicating this restriction, in red text.
3. In the case of plug doors where MOD 0725366 has been embodied, that are affected by interference indicated by wear between the step of the rail of the stop assembly and the shaft of the fitting: If there is interference, with or without shaft rotation, comply with the instructions in paragraph 1.E.2.a.2. of ASB No. 52.00.33 R1.

Note: DGAC AD F-2004-142 R1 refers.

Compliance: 1. At the next ALF-check after 7 December 2005, unless already accomplished.
2. Before further flight, unless already accomplished.
3. Within the next 50 flight hours, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 flight hours.

This amendment becomes effective on 7 December 2005.

Background: The manufacturer received a report of the loss of a right hand plug door from an AS 332 L helicopter during in-flight door operation. The aircraft was performing hover flight when a crew member unlocked the door for aerial photography. The door was not found, and an examination of the elements on the airframe revealed that this event was caused by a hinge failure of the stop assembly of the middle rail. Amendment 1 is issued in response to a revision of the related DGAC AD, which introduces Revision 1 of the Requirement document.

FMI: www.casa.gov.au