AD NUMBER: 2017-26-03

PRODUCT: Enstrom Helicopter Corporation (Enstrom) Model F-28, F-28A, F-28C, F-28C-2, F-28C-2R, F-28F, F-28F-R, TH-28, 280, 280C, 280F, 280FX, 480, and 480B helicopters.

ACTION: Final Rule.

SUMMARY: This AD requires inspecting certain rod end bearing assemblies. This AD is prompted by an accident. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an unsafe condition on these helicopters.

COST: The FAA estimates  that this AD affects 513 helicopters of U.S. Registry. At an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Inspecting the bearing assemblies will require 5 work-hours, for a cost per helicopter of $425 and a total cost of $218,025 to the U.S. fleet. Reporting the inspection results required by this AD will require about 0.5 work-hour, for a cost per helicopter of $43, and a total cost of $22,059 to the U.S. fleet.

If required, replacing one bearing assembly will not incur any additional work-hours, and required parts will cost $410, for a cost per helicopter of $410.

DATES: This AD becomes effective January 4, 2018.

FMI: AD