AD 2021-18-07 Requires Establishing A Life Limit For Certain Part-Numbered High Landing Gear Aft Crosstubes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters.

This AD was prompted by the results of a fatigue review. This AD requires establishing a life limit for certain part-numbered high landing gear aft crosstubes. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD becomes effective September 20, 2021.

Supplementary Information: EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2017-0097, dated June 7, 2017 (EASA AD 2017-0097), to correct an unsafe condition for AgustaWestland S.p.A. (formerly Agusta S.p.A., Costruzioni Aeronautiche Giovanni Agusta) Model AB412 and AB412EP helicopters with high skid landing gear assemblies part number (P/N) 412-050-012-(XXX), 412-050-014-(XXX), 412-050-050-(XXX), or 412-050-059-(XXX), where ‘XXX' represents any 3-digit combination, installed. EASA advises of the determination that a life limit must be introduced for certain high skid landing gear aft crosstubes following a fatigue review.

Failure to comply with the new life limit could lead to the failure of the part, possibly resulting in damage of the helicopter and injuries to passengers. Accordingly, EASA AD 2017-0097 requires implementation of the new life limit and revision of the Aircraft Maintenance Program (AMP).

FMI: www.regulations.gov