Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
The FAA proposes to supersede an existing Airworthiness Directive (AD) for certain Bell Model 430 helicopters focusing on the main rotor components. This proposed rule introduces changes based on feedback received on the previous AD, which aimed at mitigating unsafe conditions that could lead to helicopter control loss. The updated AD addresses several inspection requirements and life limits for critical components.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Removal of the magnetic particle inspection requirement after each detailed inspection.
- Revised re-identification requirements for certain pitch link assemblies.
- Removal of life limit requirements for specific components as they are now replaced on-condition.
Obligations
What this law requires
Perform recurring inspections of each main rotor clevis and each universal bearing at intervals specified in the airworthiness directive
Operators of Bell Model 430 helicopters (serial numbers 49001 through 49129) must comply with the airworthiness directive requirements including visual inspection of main rotor clevis, rod end, and universal bearing components
Perform magnetic particle inspection of each main rotor clevis on affected Bell Model 430 helicopters as specified in AD 2025-09-03 (or as revised in the final rule)
Reduce life limits on main rotor clevises, universal bearings, universal to pitch link bolts, tube assembly, and rod end assembly per the specified limits in the airworthiness directive
Replace main rotor pitch link assemblies with re-identified part numbered assemblies as required by the airworthiness directive