The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 407 helicopters. This AD was prompted by an accident. This AD requires inspecting the tailboom attachment structure, as specified in a Transport Canada AD, which is incorporated by reference.
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 requires inspecting the torque on the tailboom attachment nuts and, depending on the results, replacing parts with new parts and stabilizing the torque. Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 also requires a detailed visual inspection of the existing sealant application of the aft fuselage attachment fittings and, depending on the results, removing the sealant, accomplishing a detailed visual inspection of the tailboom attachment structure (fittings, aft frames, aft fuselage bulkhead, aft section of the canted web, tailboom canted bulkhead, and upper and lower tailboom longerons), repair and reapplying sealant.
There are some differences between the Transport Canada AD and this AD. Click here to read the complete AD. The effective date is Jan. 12, 2023. The compliance time to complete the required inspections is within 25 hours time-in-service or 30 days, whichever occurs first.
The FAA considers this AD an interim action. If final action is later identified, the FAA might consider further rulemaking then. Comments may be made by following the directions at the above link.