EASA AD 2018-0274
Landing Gear — Main Landing Gear Leg — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0274 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting all serial numbers of PZL W-3A helicopters. It mandates a modification to the left-hand main landing gear leg to prevent damage to the wheel braking system pneumatic line caused by rescue hoist operations. The directive ensures continued safe operation of the affected helicopters by addressing a specific landing gear component vulnerability.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to install a shield assembly, part number 37.96.204.00.00, on the left-hand main landing gear leg of PZL W-3A helicopters. The modification is required for helicopters equipped with a rescue hoist and is also mandated when installing a rescue hoist on helicopters not previously equipped. The directive provides detailed instructions through a mandatory bulletin issued by the manufacturer.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to loss of braking capability on the main landing gear, potentially causing loss of control during landing roll. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and operational safety. Failure to comply could result in unsafe conditions and regulatory non-compliance.
What To Do
Operators of PZL W-3A helicopters equipped with a rescue hoist must modify the left-hand main landing gear leg by installing the specified shield assembly within 30 days of the directive's effective date. For helicopters not equipped with a rescue hoist, installation of such equipment is only allowed if the shield assembly is installed concurrently or within 30 days after the effective date. Compliance must follow the manufacturer's mandatory bulletin instructions.
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