EASA AD 2018-0186
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2019-0139
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0186 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus Helicopters EC 120 B models. It mandates inspection and potential replacement of main rotor hub scissors attachment bolts to address corrosion and damage risks. This directive aims to prevent possible detachment of these bolts, which could lead to loss of helicopter control.
What Changed
This directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the main rotor hub scissors attachment bolts on all EC 120 B helicopters. It requires removal and repair of any bolts found defective during inspection and mandates reporting of all inspection findings to Airbus Helicopters. The directive also allows installation of only new or inspected bolts meeting the specified criteria.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the safety and airworthiness of EC 120 B helicopters by preventing potential failure of main rotor attachment bolts. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid in-flight failures that could result in catastrophic control loss. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence under EASA rules.
What To Do
Operators must inspect each main rotor hub scissors attachment bolt within 50 flight hours from 5 September 2018, following Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC120-62A020. Any defective bolts must be removed before the next flight and repaired per approved instructions. All inspection results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within 30 days after inspection.
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