Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) applicable to Eurocopter France Model SE.3160, SA.316B, SA.316C, SA.319B, SA330F, SA330G, SA330J, SA341G, and SA342J helicopters. This proposal would require inspecting each inflation head and union nut on certain emergency flotation gear nitrogen cylinders and replacing each cracked inflation head with an airworthy inflation head. This proposal is prompted by the discovery of cracked inflation heads during routine maintenance inspections of emergency flotation systems. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent an emergency flotation gear nitrogen cylinder from exploding with resultant high velocity shrapnel, which could cause airframe damage or personal injury and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.