AD NUMBER: 2019-12-06

PRODUCT: Leonardo S.p.A. (type certificate previously held by Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A.) Model AW139 helicopters.

ACTION: Final Rule.

SUMMARY: This AD requires inspecting and altering the number 1 driveshaft (driveshaft).

This AD was prompted by reports of scratches that were found on the driveshaft.

DATES: This AD is effective July 30, 2019.

COST: The FAA estimates  that this AD affects 55 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 workhour.

Inspecting, repairing, and eddy-current inspecting the driveshaft tube requires about 6 workhours, and required parts cost is minimal, for a cost of $510 per helicopter per inspection cycle. Altering the rear exhaust module and tunnel assembly requires about 20 work-hours, and required parts cost $1,500, for a cost of $3,200 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.

FMI: AD