Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Helicopters
airworthiness · Rule · Final rule. · Published 2013-08-23 · Effective 2013-09-27 · 78 FR 52407
Document
Document number
2013-19438
Federal Register citation
78 FR 52407
Type
Rule
Action
Final rule.
Category
airworthiness
Manufacturer
Eurocopter France
Publication date
2013-08-23
Effective date
2013-09-27
FAA docket
Docket No. FAA-2013-0341
Abstract
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model EC120B and EC130B4 helicopters with a certain emergency flotation gear (float) installed. This AD requires inspecting the float for chafing of the fabric covering and adding protectors to the float installation to prevent contact between the float and the protruding sections of the installation. This AD was prompted by a report of a float that would not inflate during overhaul because one of the float compartments was punctured due to chafing. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent failure of float and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter during an emergency water landing.