Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports that certain aft and forward fitting assemblies, which are not approved for installation on certain helicopters, were installed on those helicopters as part of the outboard load system. Operators of those helicopters might not be aware of the applicable overhaul or life limits for those fitting assemblies. This proposed AD would require inspecting the aft and forward fitting assemblies of the outboard load system to determine the part number, re-identifying the part if necessary, inspecting each affected part for damage (which may be indicated by signs of corrosion, mechanical damage, loose rivets, or cracks) and, depending on the findings, corrective actions, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.