# Proposed AD 2003-SW-02-AD: Eurocopter France Model AS350B, B1, B2, B3, BA, and D Helicopters

- Type: Proposed airworthiness directive (not in force)
- Status: Became AD 2003-15-08
- Products: Eurocopter France
- Product type: Aircraft
- Action: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
- Published: April 22, 2003, 68 FR 19759
- Comments due: June 23, 2003
- Became: [AD 2003-15-08](https://openairdocs.org/ad/2003-15-08)
- Docket: 2003-SW-02-AD
- FR document: 03-9863
- Official PDF: https://openairdocs.org/files/sha256/ef/e4/efe444c51f43b383bed5bbbcae6e31404a87fafe8d78746cac337124afab8e42 (from https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2003-04-22/pdf/03-9863.pdf)
- Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2003/04/22/03-9863/airworthiness-directives-eurocopter-france-model-as350b-b1-b2-b3-ba-and-d-helicopters
- FAA DRS: https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/E2BB02742693613686256D10004E79B9.0001
- Page: https://openairdocs.org/proposed/2003-SW-02-AD

## Summary

This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified model Eurocopter France (ECF) helicopters. This proposal would require replacing the main gearbox (MGB) opening neoprene cowling seals (seals) with airworthy glass/silicone seals. This proposal is prompted by the discovery that neoprene seals currently installed on the MGB opening cowlings do not provide the fire protection required by the airworthiness standards. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to require installation of fire-resistant seals to prevent a fire in the engine compartment from reaching the MGB compartment that contains parts that are not fire resistant and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

## Notices in this docket

- Apr 22, 2003: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). (first notice), FR document 03-9863, comments due Jun 23, 2003 (https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2003/04/22/03-9863/airworthiness-directives-eurocopter-france-model-as350b-b1-b2-b3-ba-and-d-helicopters)

---
OpenAirDocs.org is an independent research project of [Contrail Labs](https://contraillabs.com/). It is not affiliated with the FAA or the NTSB. Source documents are U.S. government works in the public domain.