Summary
This document revises an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, SA-366G1 helicopters that would have required inspecting the 9-degree frame flange (frame) for the correct edge distance of the four attachment holes for the stretcher support and for a crack, and repairing the frame, if necessary. That proposal was prompted by a quality control check that revealed some stretcher attachment holes were improperly located on the frame where there was insufficient edge distance. This action revises the proposed rule by requiring the same actions as the previous proposal, but adds recurring inspections and refers to an engineering report that lists approved U.S. alternative fasteners and materials that may be used in any required repairs. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to prevent failure of the frame due to a crack at the stretcher support attachment holes, loss of a passenger door, damage to the rotor system, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.