On Jan. 9 the FAA issued Airworthiness Directive (AD) No. 2012-26-11 applicable to Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. (BHTI) Model 205A, 205A-1, and 205B helicopters with starter/generator power cable assemblies, part number (P/N) 205-075-902-017 and P/N 205-075-911-007 installed. The AD was prompted by the determination the cable assembly connector can deteriorate, causing a short in the connector which may lead to a fire in the starter/generator, smoke in the cockpit reducing visibility, and subsequent loss of helicopter control.

 

FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on Jun. 13, 2012 stating the intention to include an AD on this problem. No comments were received from the public on the NPRM.

 

Compliance information can be found for the Model 205A and 205A-1 in the BHTI Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 205-07-94, Revision A, dated Dec. 8, 2008; and BHTI ASB No. 205B-08-50, dated Dec. 8, 2008, for the Model 205B helicopter. The AD requires replacement of the power cable assemblies using the parts contained in starter/generator kit P/N CT205-07-94-1 within six months.