Summary
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the Apical emergency float kits installed on certain model helicopters under supplemental type certificates. This proposal would require adding placards on each side of the fuselage to identify the location and operation of the liferaft external inflation handle. The proposal would also require replacing each liferaft operation placard to state that external liferafts are installed. This proposal is prompted by a report of a helicopter that crashed into the water, and the pilot did not deploy the floats and liferafts. Two external T- handles were available for deployment of the liferafts but were not used by the passengers because they were unaware of their location. The proposed actions are intended to prevent helicopter occupants from further injury due to unnecessary exposure to harsh water conditions and to aid in deploying liferafts when liferafts are available on the helicopter and can be activated after a water landing.