Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model MBB-BK 117 D-3 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a determination that certain bolts installed on the horizontal control rods of the flight controls were not dye penetrant inspected for cracks during manufacturing and thus could lead to bolt failure. This AD requires replacement of affected bolts with bolts that are eligible for installation. This AD also prohibits installing an affected bolt on any helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.