Rotor Drive(s) — Main Gear Box / Emergency Spraying System — Modification / Functional Test
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2016-0232
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Airbus Helicopters EC 225 LP must modify the electrical control circuit of the main gearbox emergency lubrication system within 500 flight hours from 6 December 2016. Following modification, functional tests must be conducted every 600 flight hours plus an allowable 225 flight hour margin. Any discrepancies found during testing require immediate corrective action before further flight, and these tests must continue regularly as specified.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016-0232R1 is an updated regulatory requirement affecting Airbus Helicopters EC 225 LP models. It addresses issues related to oil leaks from the main gearbox caused by inadvertent opening of the emergency lubrication system valve during engine start-up. The directive mandates modifications and functional testing to ensure continued safe operation of the main gearbox lubrication system.
What changed
This revision of EASA AD 2016-0232 introduces an extended interval margin for the repetitive functional tests of the main gearbox emergency lubrication system. The update allows the test interval to be synchronized with existing inspection schedules, adding a 225 flight hour margin to the previously required 600 flight hour interval. The modification and testing requirements remain consistent with the original directive.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent loss of main gearbox lubrication, which could compromise helicopter safety during adverse conditions. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid potential mechanical failures and maintain airworthiness. The extended test interval margin provides flexibility in maintenance planning without compromising safety.
More for Airbus Helicopters SA 330
All 116- EASA AD 2021-0139R2Doors – Cabin Lateral Sliding Plug Door Emergency Jettisoning System – Inspection / ModificationOct 2, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0166Fuselage – Splice of Frame X5295 – InspectionAug 19, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0148Electrical Power – Direct Current Electrical Master Box – InspectionJul 28, 2026
- EASA AD 2023-0148R1Main Rotor Drive – Main Gearbox – Replacement; Placards and Markings – ENG1 Training Idle Switch – Installation / Operational RestrictionJul 24, 2026
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