AD NUMBER: 2019-22-08

PRODUCT: Leonardo S.p.A. Model AW169 and AW189 helicopters.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

SUMMARY: This AD requires inspecting certain part-numbered and serial-numbered tail rotor (T/R) actuators, reporting information, and depending on the inspection outcome, marking a part, performing an additional inspection, and removing the T/R actuator from service.

This AD also prohibits the installation of affected T/R actuators. This AD is prompted by reports of incorrect installations of the T/R actuator back-end input lever.

DATES: This AD becomes effective January 7, 2020. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by February 21, 2020.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 10 helicopters of U.S. registry. Operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD:

Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Inspecting the T/R actuator input lever assembly takes about 1 work-hour, and reporting information and photos to Leonardo S.p.A. takes about 1 work-hour, for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $1,700 for the U.S. fleet. Marking a part takes a minimal amount of time for a nominal cost. Replacing a T/R actuator takes about 6 work-hours and parts cost about $20,000, for an estimated cost of $20,510 per helicopter.

According to Leonardo Helicopter's 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, the FAA has included all costs in the cost estimate.

FMI: AD