# Proposed AD 2001-SW-02-AD: Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Model 407 Helicopters

- Type: Proposed airworthiness directive (not in force)
- Status: Became AD 2001-01-52
- Action: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); rescission.
- Published: April 12, 2001, 66 FR 18884
- Comments due: May 14, 2001
- Became: [AD 2001-01-52](https://openairdocs.org/ad/2001-01-52)
- Docket: 2001-SW-02-AD
- FR document: 01-9075
- Official PDF: https://openairdocs.org/files/sha256/0d/c4/0dc4c52320e25618b7a705003eb3df5a76b79c2c086460ec4c0835f0329c459b (from https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2001-04-12/pdf/01-9075.pdf)
- Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2001/04/12/01-9075/airworthiness-directives-bell-helicopter-textron-canada-model-407-helicopters
- Page: https://openairdocs.org/proposed/2001-SW-02-AD

## Summary

This amendment proposes rescinding an existing Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (BHTC) Model 407 helicopters. That AD currently requires, before further flight, imposing never exceed velocity (Vne) restrictions on the helicopter. The requirements of that AD were intended to prevent tail rotor blades from striking the tailboom, separation of the aft section of the tailboom with the tail rotor gearbox and vertical fin, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. That AD was prompted by an accident suspected of being the result of a tail rotor strike caused by high airspeed. Since the issuance of that AD, accident investigation findings have not substantiated that a tail rotor strike caused by high airspeed was the cause of the accident. This action would require rescinding that AD. This proposal is prompted by the FAA's determination that the Vne restrictions and accompanying actions imposed by that AD do not correct an unsafe condition.

## Notices in this docket

- Apr 12, 2001: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); rescission. (first notice), FR document 01-9075, comments due May 14, 2001 (https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2001/04/12/01-9075/airworthiness-directives-bell-helicopter-textron-canada-model-407-helicopters)

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