EASA AD 2017-0079R1: Propellers — Pitch Control Actuator Aft Yoke Seal — Life Limitation

What to do

Operators and maintenance organizations should consult their respective military airworthiness authorities to obtain and comply with the applicable military ADs for aircraft equipped with Ratier-Figeac FH385 or FH386 propellers. For further information, stakeholders can access the list of CQC AD recommendations available in the EASA Expert Area. No civil compliance deadlines are specified in this document.

Summary

The document titled "Propellers — Pitch Control Actuator Aft Yoke Seal — Life Limitation" is an explanatory statement issued by EASA regarding the absence of an Airworthiness Directive (AD) for Ratier-Figeac FH385 and FH386 series propellers. These propellers are not currently in civil service, so no public AD exists. The document serves as an informational record and recommends that military authorities issue their own ADs for affected aircraft equipped with these propellers.

What changed

This document introduces an informational advisory record rather than a formal AD, highlighting that no civil AD is available due to the absence of FH385 and FH386 propellers in civil aviation. It clarifies that legally binding requirements for these propellers are governed by military authorities in the respective countries where affected aircraft are registered.

Why it matters

This matters to aviation professionals because it informs operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams that no civil AD applies to these propellers, but military operators must follow their national military ADs. It helps clarify responsibility for airworthiness and ensures that military authorities are aware of the need to issue appropriate directives for safety and compliance.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

More for Ratier-Figeac FH385