AD FAA-2020-1170

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model 429 helicopters. This proposed AD would require inspecting certain serial-numbered Emergency Flotation System (EFS) inflation hoses and depending on the results of those inspections, marking certain parts or removing certain parts from service. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that a float compartment on an EFS did not inflate. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products.