EASA AD 2018-0205
Main Rotor — Floating Ring Assembly — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0205 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection and replacement of the main rotor floating ring assembly on Leonardo S.p.A. A109 and A119 helicopter models, including variants A109E, A109S, A109LUH, AW109SP, AW119MKII, and A119. The directive targets specific floating ring assemblies with certain part and serial numbers due to potential defects.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the main rotor floating ring assemblies within 25 flight hours and requires replacement of affected parts if found. It also prohibits the installation of affected parts and the replacement of certain washers on these assemblies to prevent unsafe conditions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety issue that could lead to failure of the main rotor floating ring assembly, increasing pilot workload and potentially reducing helicopter control. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and prevents accidents related to this defect, impacting operators, maintenance organizations, and regulatory compliance teams.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the main rotor floating ring assembly within 25 flight hours after 21 September 2018 or review maintenance records to identify affected parts. If an affected part is found, it must be replaced within the same timeframe. Additionally, from the effective date, installation of affected parts and replacement of specific washers on these assemblies are prohibited.
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