Summary
We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) S-76 model helicopters with a certain life raft deployment system (LRDS) installed per Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR09211RC. This proposed AD would require removing and replacing the pilot or co-pilot life raft deployment handle (handle) located on the left side of the "broom closet'' of the helicopter. This proposed AD is prompted by an incident that occurred where the handle bent prior to the life raft deploying, and this prohibited the crew from successfully deploying and using the life raft. It was determined that the handle in this incident was not manufactured to the approved Type Design. We are proposing this AD to prevent the bending of the handle, which could result in failure of the life raft to deploy. This failure could lead to loss of access to the life raft after an emergency ditching on water.