AD NUMBER: 2013-15-02

PRODUCT: Bell Helicopter Textron Helicopters (Bell) Model 204B, 205A, 205A-1, 205B, 210, 212, 412, 412CF, and 412EP helicopters.
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2013-15-02
ACTION: Final rule, request for comments.

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2008-10-03 for the product listed above. AD 2008-10-03 required certain checks and inspections of each tail rotor blade assembly (T/R blade) at specified intervals and repairing or replacing, as applicable, any cracked or damaged T/R blade.

Since AD 2008-10-03 was issued, an accident attributed to a T/R failure occurred. This new AD retains the requirements of AD 2008-10-03 and adds a second, more detailed inspection that allows for an earlier detection of a crack or other damage in a T/R blade. These actions are intended to prevent a failure of the T/R blade and subsequent loss of helicopter control.

DATES: This AD becomes effective August 14, 2013. Comments on this AD must be submitted by September 30, 2013.

FMI: AD