Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW109SP helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of corrosion inside the hoist support assembly (boom assembly) (affected part) that affects both the huck bolt heads (blind bolt fasteners) and the support surface. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the external and internal surfaces of each affected part for cracking and corrosion and, depending on the findings, accomplishment of corrective actions, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference (IBR). This proposed AD would also allow the installation of an affected part, provided certain instructions are followed. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.