AD NUMBER: 2018-02-02

PRODUCT: Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, AS355NP, EC130B4, and EC130T2 helicopters.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

SUMMARY: This AD requires inspecting the main rotor (M/R) mast jet oil lubrication hose (oil hose).

This AD is prompted by a report of a blocked oil hose. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an unsafe condition on these helicopters.

DATES: This AD becomes effective February 12, 2018. Comments must be received on this AD by March 27, 2018.

COST: The FAA estimates that this AD affects 1,246 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD:

• At an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, inspecting the oil hose for oil and obstruction and marking the hose will require about one hour, for a cost per helicopter of $85 and a cost of $105,910 for the U.S. fleet.
• If required, replacing the M/R mast and oil hose will require 16 hours and required parts will cost $29,940 for a cost per helicopter of $31,300.

FMI: AD