# Proposed AD FAA-2021-0369: Airbus Helicopters

- Type: Proposed airworthiness directive (not in force)
- Status: Became AD 2021-16-11
- Products: Airbus Helicopters
- Product type: Aircraft
- Action: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
- Published: May 18, 2021, 86 FR 26857
- Comments due: July 2, 2021
- Became: [AD 2021-16-11](https://openairdocs.org/ad/2021-16-11)
- Docket: FAA-2021-0369 (https://www.regulations.gov/docket/FAA-2021-0369, where comments are filed)
- Project: 2019-SW-033-AD
- FR document: 2021-10353
- Official PDF: https://openairdocs.org/files/sha256/1b/c3/1bc395e0f1659c23d30556700d407961f7c6019a796a9067fad953865d927b81 (from https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2021-05-18/pdf/2021-10353.pdf)
- Federal Register: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/05/18/2021-10353/airworthiness-directives-airbus-helicopters
- FAA DRS: https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/2374792A54806229862586DA0047CDCF.0001
- Page: https://openairdocs.org/proposed/FAA-2021-0369

## Summary

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of reduced yaw control, during an approach for landing, that resulted from rupture of the tail rotor gearbox (TGB) actuating rod and uncoupling of the steel sleeve from inside the external aluminum tube. This proposed AD would require dye penetrant inspecting certain TGB actuating rods for a crack, and depending on the inspection results, replacing the TGB actuating rod, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). This proposed AD would also require marking each TGB actuating rod, reporting information, and, for certain helicopters, ensuring the correct interface between certain TGB actuating rods and bearings. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

## Notices in this docket

- May 18, 2021: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). (first notice), FR document 2021-10353, comments due Jul 2, 2021 (https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/05/18/2021-10353/airworthiness-directives-airbus-helicopters)

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