EASA AD 2018-0035-E
[Correction] Landing Gear — Bellcrank Assembly — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0035-E is an emergency directive addressing the inspection of the nose landing gear (NLG) bellcrank assembly, part number 30.42.010.00.00, installed on all serial numbers of PZL W-3A and PZL W-3AS helicopters. The directive mandates a one-time inspection due to a manufacturing defect causing reduced wall thickness and potential cracking of the NLG bellcrank assembly. This condition could lead to landing gear failure and possible damage or injury.
What Changed
This directive introduces a mandatory inspection requirement for the affected NLG bellcrank assemblies and requires replacement if any discrepancies are found. It also corrects previous errors in the mandatory bulletin regarding helicopter type references and contact information. Additionally, it allows installation of the affected assemblies only after passing the specified inspection.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential landing gear failure caused by manufacturing defects. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters. It also affects parts installation procedures, requiring inspections before assembly installation to avoid unsafe conditions.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the affected NLG bellcrank assembly within 5 flight cycles from 2018-02-06 using the instructions in the revised mandatory bulletin. If any defects are found, the assembly must be replaced before the next flight. Additionally, any affected assembly must be inspected and cleared before installation on any helicopter.
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