AD NUMBER: 2020-05-11

PRODUCT: Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 and R44 II helicopters with an agricultural spray system installed by Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00286BO (spray system). This spray system is also known as a Simplex Manufacturing Company (Simplex) Model 244 spray system.

ACTION: Final rule

SUMMARY: This AD was prompted by a report of an in-flight failure of the spray system elbow pump fitting (pump fitting).

This AD requires repetitive inspections of the spray system pump fitting, corrective action if necessary, replacement of the spray system pump fitting, and installation of hose supports and a pump outlet cover.

DATES: This AD is effective April 16, 2020.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 75 helicopters of U.S. registry. Operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD:

• Inspecting the fitting takes about 0.1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $9 per helicopter and $675 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle.
• Replacing the fitting and installing the cushion clamp and hose supports takes about 1 work-hour with a nominal parts cost for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $6,375 for the U.S. fleet.
• Installing the pump outlet cover takes about 1 work-hour and parts cost about $300 for an estimated cost of $385 per helicopter.
• According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals.

FMI: AD