AD 2021-20-18 Requires Removing And Reinstalling The (Affected) Windows

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain serial-numbered Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW119 MKII helicopters.

This AD was prompted by the discovery that the passenger cabin windows (windows) on a batch of helicopters were improperly installed during production. This AD requires removing and reinstalling the windows. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD becomes effective November 3, 2021.

Supplementary Information: EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2018-0270, dated December 12, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0270), to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, formerly Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A., Agusta S.p.A.; and AgustaWestland Philadelphia Corporation, formerly Agusta Aerospace Corporation, Model AW119MKII helicopters, serial numbers 14831, 14834, 14838, 14840, 14841, 14842, 14843, 14844, 14901, 14904, 14905, 14906, and 14918. EASA advises that during maintenance of a helicopter, removal of passenger windows could only be accomplished with difficulty. EASA further advises that subsequent investigation identified a batch of helicopters on  which passenger windows have been improperly installed during production. According to Leonardo Helicopters service information, an investigation concluded that the gasket was bonded to the window (or on both sides) instead of to the door frame.

This condition, if not corrected, could prevent the jettisoning of the windows, possibly preventing the evacuation of passengers during an emergency situation. Accordingly, EASA AD 2018-0270 requires removal and reinstallation of the passenger windows with the approved design data.

FMI: www.regulations.gov