# Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. (Type Certificate Currently Held by Agusta Westland S.p.A) (Agusta) Helicopters
> **Rule** · Final rule. · Published 2013-09-25 · Effective 2013-10-30 · 78 FR 58868
## Document
- **Document number:** 2013-23017
- **Category:** airworthiness
- **Manufacturer:** Agusta S.p.A. (Type Certificate Currently Held by Agusta Westland S.p.A) (Agusta)
- **Type:** Rule
- **Action:** Final rule.
- **Citation:** 78 FR 58868
- **Publication date:** 2013-09-25
- **Effective date:** 2013-10-30
- **FAA docket:** Docket No. FAA-2013-0146
## Abstract

We are superseding an airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta Model A109E helicopters that required reducing the tail rotor (T/R) blade life limit, modifying a T/R hub and grip assembly, re-identifying two T/R assemblies, clarifying the never-exceed speed (Vne) limitation, and reducing the inspection interval. Since we issued that AD, the manufacturer has redesigned a T/R grip bushing (bushing) that reduces the loads, which caused the T/R cracking, on the T/R blades. This action requires installing the new bushing and re-identifying the T/R hub-and-grip and hub-and-blade assemblies and requires a recurring inspection of each bushing. These actions are intended to prevent fatigue failure of a T/R blade and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

## Source
- [Federal Register document](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2013/09/25/2013-23017/airworthiness-directives-agusta-spa-type-certificate-currently-held-by-agusta-westland-spa-agusta)
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