Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to Eurocopter France Model SE3130, SA3180, SE313B, SA318B, and SA318C helicopters. This proposal would require initial and repetitive visual inspections and modification, if necessary, of the horizontal stabilizer spar tube (spar tube). This proposal is prompted by an in-service report of fatigue cracks that initiated from corrosion pits. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of the spar tube, separation and impact of the horizontal stabilizer with the main or tail rotor, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.