Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc. (BHTI) Model 214ST helicopters with certain tailboom assemblies and a certain emergency float kit installed. This proposal would require initial and repetitive inspections of the tailboom for cracks until modifications of the tailboom are accomplished. This proposal is prompted by several reports of cracks in the lower aft skin of the tailboom assembly. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent cracks in the tailboom assembly, which could result in structural failure of the tailboom and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.