AD 2021-21-08 Requires An Inspection Of Each TRB For The General Condition And Any Evidence Of Burns

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters.

This AD was prompted by a report of damage (burns) on the tail rotor blades (TRBs). This AD requires an inspection of each TRB for the general condition and any evidence of burns and replacement if necessary, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective December 10, 2021.

Supplementary Information: The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2019-0073, dated March 28, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0073) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters.

The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 18, 2021 (86 FR 46162). The NPRM was prompted by a report of damage (burns) on the TRBs. The NPRM proposed to require an inspection of each TRB for the general condition and any evidence of burns and replacement if necessary, as specified in an EASA AD.

The FAA is issuing this AD to address damage (burns) on the TRBs. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in loss of a TRB, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. See the MCAI for additional background information.

FMI: www.regulations.gov