AD NUMBER: 2019-09-04

PRODUCT: Certain Leonardo S.p.A. (Type Certificate previously held by Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A.) Model AW109SP helicopters.

ACTION: Final Rule.

SUMMARY: This AD requires inspecting and altering the rescue hoist.

This AD was prompted by a report of a damaged hoist cable that detached after load application.

DATES: This AD is effective July 3, 2019.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 30 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD:

Labor rates are estimated at $85 per hour.

• Inspecting the hoist handle assembly, cabin doorframe, and hoist cable requires about 2 hours, for a cost of $170 per helicopter. Replacing the hardware on the hoist handle assembly requires about 1 hour and required parts costs are minimal, for a cost of $85 per helicopter.
• If required, replacing a hoist cable requires about 3 hours and required parts cost $3,150, for a cost per helicopter of $3,405.

According to Leonardo Helicopters' service information, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage by Leonardo Helicopters. Accordingly, all costs have been included in the cost estimate.

FMI: AD