Airworthiness Directive 2008-16-16
one-timeAirworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (BHTC) Model 230 Helicopters
What this AD requires
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for BHTC Model 230 helicopters. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of Canada which indicates that the existing rigging procedures for the tail rotor pitch change mechanism have to be changed due to the possibility of parts interference. The cumulative effect of individual part tolerances resulting in the total assemblage of those parts being out of tolerance could result in the tail rotor yoke striking another part other than the flapping stop (parts interference) as cited in the MCAI. Also, the misalignment of the tail rotor counterweight bellcrank may result in higher tail rotor pedal forces and a higher pilot workload after failure of the No. 1 hydraulic system. Both parts interference and the misaligned counterweight bellcrank create an unsafe condition. This AD requires actions that are intended to address these unsafe conditions.
Which aircraft AD 2008-16-16 applies to
Applies to all Model 230 helicopters certificated in any category; not gated on a specific part or serial number.
Whether AD 2008-16-16 actually applies to your aircraft (by serial and installed parts) and whether it’s already complied with comes from that aircraft’s records.
How AD compliance is recorded
A valid compliance record (14 CFR 43.9) states:
Tailplate reads a tail number’s logbooks and matches every applicable AD — including this one — to its compliance evidence, with recurring next-due dates computed.
Look up a tail number →Read the full directive (Federal Register)Applicability is derived from the FAA directive corpus and is advisory, not a legal airworthiness determination. Compliance is established only from an aircraft’s actual records.