# Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters
> **Rule** · Final rule; request for comments. · Published 2012-04-18 · Effective 2012-05-03 · 77 FR 23109
## Document
- **Document number:** 2012-9315
- **Category:** airworthiness
- **Manufacturer:** Agusta S.p.A.
- **Type:** Rule
- **Action:** Final rule; request for comments.
- **Citation:** 77 FR 23109
- **Publication date:** 2012-04-18
- **Effective date:** 2012-05-03
- **FAA docket:** Docket No. FAA-2012-0409
## Abstract

We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters that requires establishing a revised life limit for each tail rotor (T/R) blade and updating the helicopter's historical records, repetitively inspecting T/R blades for a crack, and replacing certain T/R blades. This AD is prompted by a fatal accident involving an Agusta Model AW139 helicopter, which may have been caused by cracks in a T/R blade. These actions are intended to detect and prevent a crack in a T/R blade, which could lead to failure of a T/R blade and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

## Source
- [Federal Register document](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2012/04/18/2012-9315/airworthiness-directives-agusta-spa-helicopters)
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