AD 99-21-13 Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model AS332C, L, and L1 Helicopters

Models named: AS332C, L, L1. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model AS332C, L, and L1 helicopters, that are not modified in accordance with modification AMS 0722955, 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 (e) 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 prior to the next use of the hoist, unless accomplished previously. To prevent failure of the bolts that secure the hoist arm lower fitting, separation of components from the helicopter, impact with the main or tail rotors, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter, accomplish the following: (a) Remove the four bolts that secure the hoist arm lower fitting. (b ) Inspect each bolt as follows: (1) Measure each bolt shank from beneath the bolt head to the shank end; (2) Determine the part number (P/N) of the bolt; and (3) Determine what engraved marking is present on the bolt head. (c) Each bolt, P/N 22201BE080020L, inspected in accordance with paragraph (b), measuring 20 mm in length and having ``BE'' engraved on the bolt head may be reinstalled if otherwise airworthy. (d) Any bolt inspected in accordance with paragraph (b), not measuring 20 mm in length and having ``BC'' or letters other than ``BE'' engraved on the bolt head must be replaced. Replace with an airworthy bolt, P/N 22201BE080020L, that measures 20 mm in length and has ``BE'' engraved on the bolt head. (e) 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. (f) 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. (g) This amendment becomes effective on November 10, 1999. Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in Direction Generale De L'Aviation Civile (France) AD No. 98-487-072(A), dated December 2, 1998. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 29, 1999. Mark R. Schilling, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 99-25919 Filed 10-5-99; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U