AD FAA-2011-1453

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model A109, A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109K2, A109E, A109S, and A119 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) AD issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community. The MCAI AD states that a Model A109E helicopter experienced a failure of the tail rotor pitch control link assembly caused by a production defect. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent failure of a tail rotor pitch control link and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.