Airworthiness DirectiveEASA AD 2018-0070

Main Rotor — Vibration Absorber Star — Inspection / Replacement

Published: Mar 27, 2018
Effective: Apr 3, 2018
Deadline: Apr 3, 2018

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What to do

Operators of PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters must inspect the main rotor vibration absorber star within the specified compliance times, which range from 15 days or 25 flight hours to 300 flight hours or 12 months depending on the helicopter serial number. Inspections must be repeated at intervals not exceeding 300 flight hours or 12 months. Any defects found require repair or replacement following the manufacturer's mandatory bulletin. Only serviceable parts may be installed, and they must be inspected after installation.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0070 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection and replacement of the main rotor vibration absorber star, part number 30.23.005.01.04, installed on all serial numbers of PZL W-3A and PZL W-3AS helicopters. The directive mandates repetitive inspections to detect corrosion and potential defects that could compromise structural integrity and helicopter control. It applies to parts installed on these helicopter models and requires compliance with the manufacturer's mandatory bulletin BO-37-18-291.

What changed

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0070 introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the main rotor vibration absorber star for corrosion and defects, with specific compliance times based on helicopter model and serial number. It requires repair or replacement of affected parts if defects are found and mandates inspection of these parts before installation. This is a new directive addressing a previously unidentified corrosion issue.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to structural failure of the main rotor vibration absorber star, potentially causing damage to the main or tail rotor and loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and prevent accidents. The directive also affects parts management and installation procedures for the affected helicopter models.

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