AD 82-13-05 R1

82-13-05 R1 SOCIETE NATIONALE INDUSTRIELLE AEROSPATIALE (SNIAS): Amendment 39-4401 as amended by Amendment 39-4567. Applies to Model AS350 series helicopters equipped with upper tail fin, P/N 350A.14.0020, and Model AS355 series helicopters equipped with upper tail fin, P/N 350A.14.0522, including fins modified per AMS 071047, certificated in all categories (Airworthiness Docket No. 81-ASW-62).

Compliance required as indicated.

To detect possible cracks in the flanges of the upper vertical fin support fitting and prevent failure of this fitting and loss of the fin, accomplish the following:

(a) Before the first flight of each day after the effective date of this AD, visually check for cracks in the flanges of the upper vertical fin support using a light. If a crack is found, the vertical fin must be removed before further flight as prescribed in subparagraph (b)(3) of this AD. The check may be performed by the pilot.

NOTE: For the requirements regarding thelisting of compliance with this AD in the aircraft maintenance record, see Section 91.173 of the Federal Aviation Regulations.

(b) Within the next 10 hours' time in service after the effective date of this AD and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours' time in service from the last inspection, accomplish the following:

(1) Remove the tail cone fairing, P/N 350A.23.0014.

(2) Inspect the flanges of the upper vertical fin support fitting for cracks using a dye penetrant or equivalent inspection method.

(3) If a flange of the fitting is cracked, the upper vertical fin must be removed and a serviceable upper fin installed before further flight in accordance with Chapter 55 of the Model AS350 and AS355 Maintenance Manual or FAA approved equivalent.

(4) Install tail cone fairing.

(c) Equivalent means of compliance with this AD must be approved by the Chief, Aircraft Certification Staff, FAA, Europe, Africa, and Middle East Office, c/o American Embassy, Brussels, Belgium.

(d) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with Sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations to fly aircraft to a base where compliance with paragraph (b) of this AD may be accomplished.

(e) The checks and inspections specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this AD are not required after March 1, 1983, provided fins have been modified per AMS 071047 or an equivalent means.

This supersedes Amendment 39-4294 (47 FR 1113), AD 82-02-02. Amendment 39-4401 became effective June 28, 1982. This Amendment 39-4567 becomes effective March 1, 1983.