Airworthiness DirectiveEASA AD 2017-0020R1

Tail Rotor — Pitch Rod — Inspection

Published: May 22, 2019
Effective: May 22, 2019
Replaces: 2017-0020-E

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What to do

Operators must perform visual inspections of the tail rotor pitch rod within 10 flight hours or 7 days after 9 February 2017, then continue inspections at intervals not exceeding 10 flight hours unless conditions for reverting to 50 flight hours are met. If damage is found, the pitch rod must be replaced before the next flight. Compliance with the latest Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin Revision 3 is required to qualify for extended inspection intervals. All inspections and corrective actions must follow the specified maintenance manuals and work cards.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0020R1 is an updated safety directive addressing inspection requirements for the tail rotor pitch rod on Airbus Helicopters AS 350 and AS 355 models. It mandates repetitive visual inspections of the elastomeric ball-joint of the tail rotor pitch rod to detect damage that could lead to loss of helicopter control. The directive applies to all serial numbers of AS 350 B, BA, BB, B1, B2, B3 and AS 355 E, F, F1, F2, N, and NP helicopters incorporating specific modifications.

What changed

This revision of EASA AD 2017-0020R1 updates the inspection intervals and procedures based on findings that improper maintenance caused advanced degradation of the elastomeric ball-joint. It introduces conditions under which operators can revert to the original 50 flight hour inspection interval, provided certain maintenance tasks are performed according to the latest Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin Revision 3. Editorial updates were also made to align with current AD writing standards without changing technical requirements.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential safety risk that could result in loss of helicopter control if undetected damage occurs on the tail rotor pitch rod. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply with the revised inspection intervals and procedures to ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance. Failure to adhere to these requirements could lead to unsafe flight conditions and regulatory penalties.

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