Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2005-22-01 for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-76A, B, and C helicopters. AD 5002-22-01 required inspecting the main rotor lower bifilar arm assembly (bifilar arm assembly) for a crack, and if there is a crack, replacing the bifilar arm assembly. AD 2005-22-01 also required a one-time test for the correct torque on the lug nuts, and if necessary, conducting torque stabilization tests. This new AD retains the requirements of AD 2005-22-01 and also requires replacing the main rotor hub (MRH) pilot with a different part-numbered MRH pilot, which is terminating action for the requirements of the AD. This AD was prompted by the development of a terminating procedure for the inspections required by AD 2005-22-01. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of a bifilar lug, damage to the main rotor system, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.