EASA SIB CASA-2019-06: Bell Helicopter 429 and 430 Helicopters - External Hoist Hook Bumper

What to do

Owners, operators, and maintenance personnel of Bell 429 and 430 helicopters with the optional Goodrich 600-pound external hoist should review and follow the instructions in Goodrich SIL-2018-03 Revision 1 dated April 3, 2018. They must inspect the hoist hook bumper assembly to confirm correct assembly and implement any necessary corrective measures. For further information, stakeholders should contact Transport Canada or the designated continuing airworthiness office.

Summary

The Transport Canada Civil Aviation Safety Alert CASA 2019-06 addresses a safety concern affecting Bell Helicopter models 429 and 430 equipped with the optional Goodrich 600-pound capacity external hoist. The alert highlights a potential incorrect assembly of the external hoist hook bumper, which could lead to loosening of the assembly and possible loss of the hoist load. This document provides safety information and recommended corrective actions to ensure proper assembly and mitigate failure risks.

What changed

This new safety alert introduces awareness of the incorrect assembly issue with the external hoist hook bumper on Bell 429 and 430 helicopters fitted with the Goodrich external hoist. It references the Goodrich Service Information Letter SIL-2018-03 Revision 1, which provides inspection and corrective instructions to verify and ensure correct assembly of the hoist hook bumper.

Why it matters

This alert is critical for operators, maintainers, and owners of affected Bell helicopters as improper assembly of the hoist hook bumper can result in load loss during hoist operations, posing safety risks. Compliance with the recommended inspection and corrective actions helps maintain airworthiness and operational safety, reducing the risk of accidents related to hoist failures.