AD Proposed for Eurocopter AS332 for Possible Fuselage Cracks

The FAA is proposing an Airworthiness Directive for the Eurocopter AS332C, L and L1 to require initial and repetitive inspections of the outer skin, butt strap and fuselage frame for a crack and modification of the helicopter. The proposed AD is prompted by an AD issued by the EASA that states a crack was discovered in a fuselage frame during a daily check. The proposed actions are intended to detect a crack, to prevent loss of airframe structural integrity and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.