Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. Model 214B and 214B-1 Helicopters

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (BHTI) Model 214B and 214B-1 helicopters. This action requires a reduction of the never- exceed velocity (Vne) limitation until an inspection of the tail rotor yoke (yoke) assembly for fatigue damage and installation of a redesigned yoke flapping stop are accomplished. Recurring periodic and special inspections to detect occurrences of yoke overload are also required. This amendment is prompted by reports of inflight failures of yokes installed on civilian and military helicopters of similar type design. The actions specified in this AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of the yoke that could result in loss of the tail rotor and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.