Fuselage – Main Gearbox Suspension Bar Fittings and Screws – Life Limit / Replacement
Superseded. Comply with 2023-0194R1, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must determine the accumulated flight hours of affected parts within 50 flight hours after the effective date and replace parts according to specified intervals and torque measurements. Replacement of main gearbox suspension bar fittings and screws must be performed within defined compliance times, with ongoing inspections at intervals not exceeding 1,470 flight hours or as specified. All replacements and inspections must follow the instructions in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin AS332-01.00.90.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0260 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, C1, L, and L1 models. It addresses the life limits and replacement requirements for main gearbox suspension bar fittings and screws to ensure continued airworthiness. The directive applies to specific part numbers related to the main gearbox suspension bar attachment fittings and screws.
What changed
This directive introduces mandatory service life determinations and replacement intervals for the main gearbox suspension bar fittings and screws on affected AS 332 helicopter models. It requires operators to measure accumulated flight hours and tightening torque, and to replace parts based on these findings, with specific compliance times and inspection intervals. The directive serves as an interim measure pending a design change for improved attachment fitting screws.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential safety risk involving the structural integrity of main gearbox suspension bars, which could lead to failure and detachment. Compliance ensures the continued safe operation of affected helicopters and helps maintenance and compliance teams manage part life limits effectively. It also aligns with regulatory requirements for continuing airworthiness under EU regulations.
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