Summary
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for MDHI Model MD900 helicopters with certain main rotor blade (MRB) retention bolts (bolts) installed. This AD requires a daily check of the position of each bolt, a daily check and a repetitive inspection for a gap in each bolt, and, if necessary, removing and inspecting the bolt for a crack and replacing any cracked bolt with an airworthy bolt. This AD was prompted by multiple reports of in-service bolt failures. The actions are intended to prevent failure of a bolt, which could lead to loss of MRB structural integrity and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Directive Details
AD Number
FAA-2013-0486
Document Number
2013-25702
Type
Rule
Publication Date
October 31, 2013
Effective Date
December 5, 2013
Affected Manufacturer
MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI)
Criticality
important
Emergency
No
Docket ID
Docket No. FAA-2013-0486
Topics
Official Documents
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