Tail Rotor — Tail Rotor Hub — Inspection / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Replaces
- 2012-0227
- Replaces
- 2011-0144
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must perform detailed visual inspections of the tail rotor hubs within 55 flight hours after the specified effective dates and repeat these inspections every 55 flight hours. If cracks are found, the tail rotor hub must be replaced before further flight. Operators can apply the modification described in Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletins EC155-64-006 or AS365-64.00.30 to terminate the inspection requirements.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012-0227R1 is a regulatory document addressing inspection and replacement requirements for the tail rotor hub on Airbus Helicopters EC 155, SA 365, and AS 365 models equipped with specific 10-blade and 11-blade tail rotor hubs. The directive mandates repetitive inspections and corrective actions to detect and replace cracked tail rotor hubs to prevent potential tail rotor jams and loss of helicopter control.
What changed
This revision of EASA AD 2012-0227 introduces an optional terminating action by incorporating a modification (mod 0764B51) that installs reinforced 10-blade tail rotor hubs, eliminating the unsafe condition. It also expands the inspection requirements to include AS 365 N3 helicopters equipped with 11-blade tail rotor hubs and updates service bulletin references for compliance.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to tail rotor failure and loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid operational disruptions or accidents. The directive also provides a modification option that can reduce inspection frequency and improve safety.
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