AD NUMBER: 2018-06-51

PRODUCT: Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

SUMMARY: This AD requires removing a certain swashplate support (support) from service.

This AD is prompted by an error in a parts catalog incorrectly identifying the support as approved for installation on Model AW109SP helicopters.

DATES: This AD becomes effective June 7, 2018 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2018-06-51, issued on March 19, 2018, which contains the requirements of this AD. Comments must be received by July 23, 2018.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 266 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD.

Replacing a support takes about 10 work-hours and parts cost about $6,288 for an estimated cost of $7,138 per helicopter. Re-identifying a sleeve identification plate takes about 0.5 work-hour and the parts cost is minimal for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter.

Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour.

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.

FMI: AD