Federal Register #FAA20264658

FAA Proposed Airworthiness Directive for Bell 505 Tail Cone Assembly Plate Correction

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), part of the Department of Transportation, is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters to address a safety-critical labeling issue. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service - OEM Highlight: - Bell Textron Canada Limited is the sole OEM referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Verification of tail cone assembly identification plates on up to 182 Bell 505 helicopters - Replacement of identification plates with correct part numbers if necessary - Affected part numbers: SLS030600007 and SLS030600009 - Update of helicopter log cards or equivalent records after verification/replacement - Notable Requirements: - Focus on correcting incorrect part numbers on tail cone assembly identification plates to ensure accurate life limit tracking - Compliance is required within specified timeframes after the final rule is issued, with ongoing maintenance per Transport Canada AD CF202601 - Estimated labor cost for inspection is $85 per helicopter; replacement costs apply if plates are replaced - The directive is intended to prevent fatigue cracking and potential loss of control due to misidentified components

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters due to reports of incorrect part numbers on tail cone assembly identification plates. The AD requires verifying the tail cone assembly part number and replacing the identification plate if necessary, along with updating the helicopter's log card or equivalent record. This action addresses an unsafe condition that could lead to fatigue cracking of the tailboom and loss of control of the helicopter. Comments on the proposal are due by August 6, 2026.

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