Incorrect Systems May Have Been Installed

The FAA has released a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) alert for owners and operators of Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) model helicopters of the potential of having the incorrect emergency float system installed on a helicopter that has been converted to a Model AS350BA.

Eurocopter has issued Service Bulletins that allow either a Model AS350B or AS350D to be converted to a Model AS350BA. This conversion increases the maximum gross weight from 4,300 lbs. to 4,630 lbs. There is concern that some operators may have converted their aircraft to the Model AS350BA, which has a higher gross weight, and did not change the emergency float system. Landing in the water with an aircraft weighing 4,630 lbs. on a float system designed for 4,300 lbs. could cause the aircraft to be unstable in the water. For aircraft that have been converted to the model AS350BA and have emergency floats installed, the float system needs to be approved for the Model AS350BA in order to conform to Type Design.

AS350B File Photo

The FAA recommends that owners/operators of Eurocopter Model AS350BA helicopters that were converted from a Model AS350B or AS350D check their emergency float system and ensure that it is approved to the Model AS350BA Type Design. Eurocopter has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. 01.00.59, dated November 20, 2008, related to this subject.

FMI: www.faa.gov