# Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Helicopters
> **Rule** · Final rule, request for comments. · Published 2013-07-30 · Effective 2013-08-14 · 78 FR 45845
## Document
- **Document number:** 2013-18079
- **Category:** airworthiness
- **Manufacturer:** Bell Helicopter Textron
- **Type:** Rule
- **Action:** Final rule, request for comments.
- **Citation:** 78 FR 45845
- **Publication date:** 2013-07-30
- **Effective date:** 2013-08-14
- **FAA docket:** Docket No. FAA-2013-0639
## Abstract

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2008-10-03 for Bell Helicopter Textron Helicopters (Bell) Model 204B, 205A, 205A-1, 205B, 210, 212, 412, 412CF, and 412EP helicopters. 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 we issued AD 2008-10-03, 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.

## Source
- [Federal Register document](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2013/07/30/2013-18079/airworthiness-directives-bell-helicopter-textron-helicopters)
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