Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Model SA 365N, N1 and AS 365N2 Helicopters

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) applicable to Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model SA-365N, N1 and AS- 365N2 helicopters that requires inspections of the main gearbox suspension diagonal cross-member (diagonal cross-member) for cracks, and removal of the diagonal cross-member and replacement with an airworthy diagonal cross-member if any crack is found. This amendment is prompted by several reports of the discovery of cracks in diagonal cross-members. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of the diagonal cross-member which could cause the main gearbox to pivot, resulting in severe vibrations and a subsequent forced landing.