AD NUMBER: 2008-12-11
MANUFACTURER: Agusta
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2008-12-11
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta S.p.A. Model A109E, A109S, and A119 helicopters. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)originated by an aviation authority to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the technical agent for Italy, with which we have a bilateral agreement, states in the MCAI: During a ground test of the emergency door release system, the Pilot doors failed to disengage. Investigation determined that the reason of this malfunction is interference between the lower hinge and the fuselage structure. This condition, if not corrected, creates the risk of non-disengagement of the Pilot - and/or Co-pilot doors during an emergency, inhibiting the evacuation of the aircraft, possibly resulting in injuries to the occupants. This AD requires actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition caused by interference between the pilot or co-pilot door lower hinge and the fuselage structure.

FMI: www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/airworthiness_directives/