EASA SIB 2008-11
Agusta AB412 and AB412EP helicopters - Rescue Hoist P/N BL-10300-60 and P/N 412-8800-01-315 - Inspection of Hook P/N S6150-61090-1 and P/N 412-8800-05-101
Summary
EASA Safety Information Notice No. 2008-11 and the related ENAC Italy Emergency Airworthiness Directive 2008-62 address a safety issue affecting Agusta AB412 and AB412EP helicopters equipped with rescue hoists P/N BL-10300-60 or P/N 412-8800-01-315 and hooks P/N S6150-61090-1 or P/N 412-8800-05-101. The documents highlight a manufacturing non-conformity where a critical pin P/N BL-1358 is missing from the hook, potentially compromising the rescue hoist's integrity. This issue requires immediate inspection to ensure flight safety.
What Changed
The Emergency Airworthiness Directive 2008-62 introduces a mandatory visual inspection of the rescue hoist hooks to detect the absence of the pin P/N BL-1358. This directive is a new regulation prompted by a reported case of a hook missing the pin, which could lead to nut unthreading and load loss. It does not amend previous directives but establishes urgent inspection requirements for affected parts.
Why It Matters
This safety information is critical for operators and maintenance organizations as the missing pin can lead to failure of the rescue hoist hook, posing serious safety risks during helicopter operations. Compliance ensures the continued airworthiness and safety of Agusta AB412 and AB412EP helicopters equipped with the specified rescue hoists. Early detection of this manufacturing defect prevents potential accidents and regulatory non-compliance.
What To Do
Operators and maintenance personnel must perform a visual inspection of the rescue hoist hooks before the next flight or before installation on the helicopter, following the instructions in Agusta Alert BT 412-124. Spare parts must be inspected no later than March 31, 2008. Any findings should be addressed promptly to maintain airworthiness.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.