AD 2002-19-06 Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model EC 155B Helicopters

Models named: EC 155B. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model EC 155B helicopters, with SMD45H multi-functional displays, part numbers C19209VF11, C19209VG11, C19267EF10, C19267EG10, C19267VF11, or C19267VG11, having serial numbers from 201 through 284 inclusive, which are not followed by the letter “M”, installed, certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each helicopter identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been otherwise modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the requirements of this AD. For helicopters that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (b) of this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD; and if the unsafe condition has not been eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to address it.

Required within 30 days, unless accomplished previously. To prevent an electrical discontinuity in the grounding plane inside the SMD45H multi-functional display, which can result in overheating of the interconnection board, smoke in the cockpit, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter, accomplish the following: (a) Replace the “AC” interconnection board of the affected SMD45H multi-functional display with a “BC” interconnection board. (b) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used if approved by the Manager, Regulations Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA. Operators shall submit their requests through an FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may concur or comment and then send it to the Manager, Regulations Group. Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Regulations Group. (c) Special flight permits will not be issued. (d) This amendment becomes effective on October 9, 2002. Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in Direction Generale De L'Aviation Civile (France) AD No. 2001-617-004(A), dated December 26, 2001. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 13, 2002. Eric Bries, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 02-24181 Filed 9-23-02; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P