Tail Rotor — Tail Rotor Flight Control System — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2018-0250-E
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must perform a visual inspection of the tail rotor servo-actuator installation within 5 flight hours or 24 hours after 9 November 2018, and conduct inspections and breakaway torque checks of the tail rotor duplex bearing within 5 flight hours or 24 hours after 22 November 2018. Any findings require contacting Leonardo for approved corrective actions before further flight. Inspection results must be reported to Leonardo within 7 days of completion.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0252-E is an emergency directive addressing inspection requirements for the tail rotor flight control system on Leonardo AW169 and AW189 helicopters. It mandates inspections of the tail rotor servo-actuator installation and the tail rotor duplex bearing to prevent potential loss of yaw control. The directive applies to all serial numbers of AW169 and AW189 helicopters.
What changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2018-0250-E and introduces additional inspection and breakaway torque checks of the tail rotor duplex bearing, as well as inspection and reinstallation of the tail rotor servo-actuator castellated nut. It also defines conditions for the installation of specific tail rotor servo-actuators and requires reporting inspection results to Leonardo.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to ensure the continued safe operation of AW169 and AW189 helicopters by preventing loss of yaw control due to incorrect installation or wear of tail rotor components. Compliance helps operators and maintenance organizations avoid potential accidents and maintain regulatory adherence. It also provides clear instructions and timelines to manage safety risks effectively.
More for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters AW169
All 26- EASA AD 2026-0187Equipment / Furnishing – Cargo Hook Barrel Nuts and Retainers – InspectionSep 29, 2026
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- EASA AD 2025-0051R1Equipment / Furnishings — Hoist — ReplacementMay 7, 2025
- EASA AD 2023-0188-EEquipment / Furnishings — Float Assemblies — ReplacementOct 30, 2023
- EASA AD 2023-0160Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment
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