AD 73-12-01
Applicability
| Type | Manufacturer | Model | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| aircraft | Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited | 206A | Airworthiness Directives; Bell Model 206A and 206B Helicopters |
| aircraft | Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited | 206A-1 (OH-58A) | Airworthiness Directives; Bell Model 206A and 206B Helicopters |
| aircraft | Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited | 206B | Airworthiness Directives; Bell Model 206A and 206B Helicopters |
| aircraft | Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited | 206B-1 | Airworthiness Directives; Bell Model 206A and 206B Helicopters |
Unsafe Condition
Fatigue cracks in the skin of the vertical fin in the area of the tail boom attachment, particularly aft of the upper rear attachment insert.
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Required Actions
Inspect the inboard skin of the vertical fin in the area of attachment for cracks, paying particular attention to the area aft of the upper rear attachment insert. Replace or repair the fin if cracks exceed 3.5 inches in length before further flight. If cracks are less than 3.5 inches, repair or replace per Bell Helicopter Company Service Letter No. 206-203, Revision C, or FAA-approved revision before further flight. Repeat inspections at intervals not exceeding 25 hours' time in service.
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Compliance Time
Within the next 25 hours' time in service after the effective date of this A.D., unless already accomplished within the last 25 hours' time in service
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Affected Aircraft
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited Model 206A, 206A-1 (OH-58A), 206B, 206B-1 helicopters with serial numbers 4 through 865 and 867 through 873, equipped with vertical fin P/N 206-020-113-5, -7, or -9.
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Source: Official FAA Source ↗
Retrieved: Apr 8, 2026
Rights: U.S. Government Public Domain
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