Summary
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (ECF) helicopters. That proposal would require determining the load release unit (cargo hook) serial number, measuring the clearance between the locking catch and the cargo hook, and removing unairworthy cargo hooks from service. This proposal is prompted by the discovery of a defect on certain cargo hooks that may prevent load release. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to prevent failure of a cargo hook to release a load, creating an additional hazard in an emergency situation and subsequent loss of control of a helicopter.