AD 2021-18-12 Requires Repetitively Inspecting The Sealing Compound Of Certain Part-Numbered Brackets

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain PZL Swidnik S.A. Model PZL W-3A helicopters.

This AD was prompted by a report of fractured hoist carrying assembly bracket (bracket) bolts. This AD requires repetitively inspecting the sealing compound of certain part-numbered brackets, and depending on the results, removing the hoist or removing the hardware from service and installing new hardware. As an option to replacing the bolts, this AD allows deactivating the hoist, turning the circuit breaker panel switches to the OFF position, installing inoperative placards on the circuit breaker panel switches, and before each flight, inspecting the sealing compound. This AD also establishes a life limit for the bracket bolts, and prohibits installing an affected hoist or an affected bracket and hoist unless the actions required by this AD have been accomplished. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD becomes effective October 12, 2021.

Supplementary Information: EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD 2019-0191-E, dated July 31, 2019 (EASA Emergency AD 2019-0191-E), to correct an unsafe condition for Wytwórnia Sprzetu Komunikacyjnego (WSK) “PZL-Swidnik” Spólka Akcyjna (S.A.) Model PZL W-3A helicopters. EASA advises of a report of fractured bracket bolts. This condition, if not addressed, could result in detachment of the bracket resulting in movement of the hoist carrying assembly around the axis of the remaining two lower brackets, and subsequent damage to the helicopter and loss of hoisted load or person(s).

Accordingly, EASA Emergency AD 2019-0191-E requires repetitive inspections of the sealing compound around the affected brackets and, depending on the findings, accomplishing applicable corrective actions. EASA Emergency AD 2019-0191-E also requires repetitive replacement of the affected bolts. EASA considers its AD an interim action and states that further AD action may follow.

FMI: www.regulations.gov