AD 88-12-02

88-12-02 SCHWEIZER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION (MCDONNELL DOUGLAS HELICOPTER COMPANY; HUGHES HELICOPTERS, INC.): Amendment 39-5926. Applies to Model 269C helicopters certificated in any category, equipped with tail rotor retention strap assemblies, P/N 269A6065 and P/N 369A1706.

Compliance is required as indicated, unless already accomplished.

To prevent failure of the tail rotor retention strap assembly which could result in loss of the helicopter, accomplish the following:

(a) Within the next 10 hours time in service after the effective date of this AD, or upon the accumulation of 3,540 hours time in service, whichever occurs later, remove tail rotor retention strap assemblies, P/N 269A6065 and P/N 369A1706, from service.

(b) Replace P/N 269A6065 and P/N 369A1706 with serviceable parts.

(c) Aircraft may be ferried in accordance with the provisions of FAR 21.197 and 21.199 to a base where the AD can be accomplished.

(d) Alternative inspection, modification,or other actions which provide an equivalent level of safety may be used when approved by the Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, New England Region.

This amendment becomes effective June 10, 1988.