# Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A and A109A II Helicopters
> **Rule** · Final rule; request for comments. · Published 1999-12-20 · Effective 2000-01-04 · 64 FR 71009
## Document
- **Document number:** 99-32580
- **Category:** airworthiness
- **Manufacturer:** Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A and A109A II
- **Type:** Rule
- **Action:** Final rule; request for comments.
- **Citation:** 64 FR 71009
- **Publication date:** 1999-12-20
- **Effective date:** 2000-01-04
- **FAA docket:** Docket No. 99-SW-64-AD
## Abstract

This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to Agusta Model A109A and A109A II helicopters, that currently requires inspecting each tail rotor blade (blade) for a crack and replacing any cracked blade. This amendment requires, before further flight, inspecting any blade with 400 or more hours time-in- service (TIS) for a crack and replacing any cracked blade. This amendment is prompted by another report of a cracked blade since the issuance of the existing AD. Two of the three occurrences of cracked blades involved the loss of the tail rotor and 90-degree gearbox. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of the blade, loss of the tail rotor, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

## Source
- [Federal Register document](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/1999/12/20/99-32580/airworthiness-directives-agusta-spa-model-a109a-and-a109a-ii-helicopters)
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