AD NUMBER: 2018-07-02

PRODUCT: Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model A109E, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters.

ACTION: Final Rule; request for comments

SUMMARY:  This AD requires inspecting the main rotor blade (MRB) tip cap for disbonding. This AD is prompted by a report of the in-flight loss of an MRB tip cap. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective April 13, 2018. Comments must be received by May 29, 2018.

COST: The FAA estimates  that this AD affects 130 helicopters of U.S. Registry. At an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Tap inspecting the MRB tip caps will require 1 work-hour, for a cost per helicopter of $85 and a cost of $11,050 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. If required, replacing one MRB will require 4 work-hours and required parts will cost $89,179, for a cost per helicopter of $89,519.

According to Leonardo Helicopters' 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 agency has have included all costs in our cost estimate.

FMI: AD rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgad.nsf/0/129F00B2F7259FB48625825F00494592?OpenDocument