Summary
The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019-05-06, which applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters. AD 2019-05-06 requires replacing the retaining ring, inspecting the hoist cable hook assembly, and, if necessary, replacing the elastomeric energy absorber. Since the FAA issued AD 2019-05-06 the design approval holder (DAH) has designed an updated hook assembly, which, when installed, terminates the repetitive inspections required by AD 2019-05-06. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions specified in AD 2019-05-06, and would also require a modification or replacement of the hoist cable hook assembly that would terminate the repetitive inspections and retaining ring replacements, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). The FAA is proposing thisAD to address the unsafe condition on these products.