AD/SA 315/5 Hoist Hooks (Cth)

AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE

For the reasons set out in the background section, the CASA delegate whose signature appears below issues the following Airworthiness Directive (AD) under subregulation 39.001(1) of CASR 1998.  The AD requires that the action set out in the requirement section (being action that the delegate considers necessary to correct the unsafe condition) be taken in relation to the aircraft or aeronautical product mentioned in the applicability section: (a) in the circumstances mentioned in the requirement section; and (b) in accordance with the instructions set out in the requirement section; and (c) at the time mentioned in the compliance section.

Eurocopter SA 315 (Lama) Series Helicopters

AD/SA 315/5 Hoist Hooks 12/2006

Applicability:

Model SA 315 B helicopters equipped with Goodrich (Lucas-Air Equipment) hoists, part numbers:

76300-xxx, and

fitted with hooks part numbers:

704160 and 708931.

Note:  The hooks concerned are not fitted with a tongue locking system.

Requirement:

1.    Accomplish the operational procedure, and the restriction prohibiting the use of straps, in accordance with the instructions specified in paragraph 2.A. of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. 01.33.

2.    Accomplish the instructions specified in paragraph 2.B. of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. 01.33.

Note:  EASA AD 2006-0098 refers.

Compliance:

1.    Before each hoisting operation.

2.    Within 2 months after 23 November 2006.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 23 November 2006.

Background:

This Directive was prompted by a case of incorrect positioning of the strap on the hoist hook during a hoisting mission, which led to distortion of the tongue and resulted in the release of the stretcher containing an injured person.

David Villiers
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

12 October 2006