AD 99-02-09 Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Model A109C and A109K2 Helicopters

Models named: A109C, A109K2. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Models A109C and A109K2 helicopters, certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each helicopter identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 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 use the authority provided in paragraph (d) to request approval from the FAA. This approval may address either no action, if the current configuration eliminates the unsafe condition, or different actions necessary to address the unsafe condition described in this AD. Such a request should include an assessment of the effect of the changed configuration on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD. In no case does the presence of any modification, alteration, or repair remove any helicopter from the applicability of this AD.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent main rotor pitch change link spherical bearing axial play due to wear, which could result in an increase in the vibration level and reduced controllability of the helicopter, accomplish the following: (a) Within the next 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours TIS, remove the pitch change link assembly, part number (P/N) 109-0110-71. (b) Measure the radial play at both the upper and lower spherical bearings. If the radial play of a bearing exceeds 0.2 millimeter, or .008 inch, replace the affected bearing with an airworthy bearing prior to further flight. Note 2: Agusta Bollettino Technico Telegrafico No. 109-9, dated March 23, 1995, pertains to the subject of this AD. (c) Reinstall the pitch change link assembly. (d) 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, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Rotorcraft Standards Staff. Operators shall submit their requests through an FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may concur or comment and then send it to the Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Staff. Note 3: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Rotorcraft Standards Staff. (e) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the helicopter to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished. (f) This amendment becomes effective on February 19, 1999. Note 4: The subject of this AD is addressed in Registro Aeronautico Italiano (Italy) AD's 95-082 and 95-083, both dated March 28, 1995. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on January 8, 1999. Henry A. Armstrong, Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 99-908 Filed 1-14-99; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P