Fuselage — 9° Frame — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Replaces
- 2014-0159
- Replaces
- 2010-0064-E
- Replaces
- 2009-0125-E
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must perform detailed visual inspections of the 9° frame on both right and left sides within 110 flight hours after exceeding specified flight hour or cycle thresholds, and then at intervals not exceeding 110 flight hours. If cracks are found, immediate reporting to Airbus Helicopters for approved repair instructions is required, with repairs completed within 660 flight hours or 12 months. Incorporating the Airbus Helicopters modification service bulletin provides a terminating action to stop repetitive inspections.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0159R1 is an updated safety directive addressing inspection requirements for the 9° frame on Airbus Helicopters SA 365 and AS 365 models, including SA 365 N, N1, and AS 365 N2 and N3 variants. The directive mandates repetitive inspections to detect cracks that could compromise structural integrity and requires corrective actions or modifications as necessary. This AD applies to all serial numbers except those with a specific Airbus Helicopters modification embodied in production.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0159R1 revises the original 2014-0159 AD by introducing a structural reinforcement modification as a terminating action for the required repetitive inspections. It updates compliance times and inspection instructions based on further analysis and incorporates the latest Airbus Helicopters service bulletins. This revision supersedes previous emergency ADs and modifies inspection thresholds and corrective action protocols.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Airbus Helicopters models by preventing potential failure of the 9° frame. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid unsafe conditions that could lead to in-flight structural issues. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, reducing risk and potential downtime due to unexpected repairs.
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