AD NUMBER: 2018-18-11

PRODUCT: Airbus Helicopters Model AS-365N2 and AS 365 N3 helicopters with a lower strobe light installed.

ACTION: Final Rule.

SUMMARY: This AD requires installing a cable mount, inspecting the lower strobe light wiring harness, and re-routing the wiring harness.

This AD was prompted by reports of interference between the lower strobe light wiring harness and the helicopter structure.

DATES: This AD is effective October 18, 2018.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 30 helicopters of U.S. Registry. The cost of compliance is estimated as follows:

• At an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, installing a cable mount and inspecting the strobe light wiring harnesses requires about 1 work-hour, and required parts cost about $50, for a cost of $135 per helicopter and a total cost of $4,050 to all U.S. operators.
• If required, replacing torn spiral tape requires about 1 work-hour, and required parts cost $45, for a cost of $130 per helicopter.
• If required, replacing a chafed wiring harness between the cut-off connector and Frame 2000 requires about 3 work-hours, and required parts cost $90, for a cost of $345 per helicopter.
• If required, replacing a chafed lower strobe light wiring harness requires about 3 work-hours, and required parts cost $154, for a cost of $409 per helicopter.

FMI: AD