Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to Eurocopter France Model AS 332C, L, L1, and L2 helicopters. This proposal would require visually inspecting the intermediate gearbox-to-structure attachment stirrup (stirrup) front tabs for cracks, and if a crack is discovered, removing the intermediate gearbox and replacing it with an airworthy intermediate gearbox; and inspecting for the conformity of the attachment parts. This proposal is prompted by five reports of failure of the two stirrup tabs. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent failure of the intermediate gearbox stirrup front tabs, loss of anti-torque drive, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.