EASA AD 2018-0092-E
Rotor Drive(s) — Main Transmission Case — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0092-E is an emergency directive addressing the inspection of main transmission cases on PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters, specifically those with manufacturer serial numbers up to 3X.10.12. It mandates repetitive inspections of the main transmission case parts P/N 64.21.0105 and P/N 64.22.0161 installed on WR-3 Main XMSN P/N 64.21.3000 or P/N 64.21.4000. The directive aims to detect cracks that could lead to structural failure and loss of helicopter control.
What Changed
This new emergency airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the affected main transmission case parts and requires replacement if cracks or discrepancies are found. It also requires operators to report inspection results and establishes specific compliance intervals based on flight hours and operational history of the parts. No previous directive is superseded by this AD.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential fatigue-related structural failure in the main transmission case, which could result in loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of affected PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters. Compliance helps prevent accidents and ensures regulatory adherence under EASA rules.
What To Do
Operators must perform an initial inspection within 5 flight hours after the effective date of 24 April 2018 and continue inspections every 25 flight hours thereafter, following the instructions in the WSK PZL-ŚWIDNIK Mandatory Bulletin No. BO-37-18-294. If any cracks or discrepancies are found, the main transmission must be replaced before the next flight. Inspection requirements also apply after installation of replacement main transmissions, with compliance times depending on the operational history of the part.
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