Summary
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron (Bell) Model 204B, 205A, 205A-1, 205B, 210, 212, 412, 412CF, and 412EP helicopters. The AD would require certain checks and inspections of each tail rotor blade assembly (T/R blade) at specified intervals and repairing or replacing, as applicable, any unairworthy T/R blade. This proposal is prompted by eight reports of T/R blade failures. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent failure of a T/R blade and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.