Fuselage — Main Gearbox Suspension Bar Rear Attachment Fitting Screws — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus Helicopters AS 332 models must inspect the specified attachment screws within 110 flight hours after 02 January 2019. If issues are found, corrective actions such as applying sealing compound or detailed inspections must be completed before the next flight. Additionally, measured tightening torque results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within 30 days of inspection.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0282 is an airworthiness directive addressing Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, C1, L, and L1 models delivered before 01 September 2018. It mandates inspection of the main gearbox suspension bar rear attachment fitting screws, specifically part number 330A22013520, to detect potential elongation and loss of nut tightening torque. The directive aims to prevent structural failure of the main gearbox rear attachment fittings that could lead to detachment of suspension bars.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the affected attachment screws on the main gearbox suspension bars. Depending on inspection results, corrective actions such as applying sealing compound or further measurements and part inspections must be performed. It also requires reporting of inspection findings to Airbus Helicopters as an interim safety measure.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential structural failure risk that could compromise helicopter safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid unsafe conditions that could lead to suspension bar detachment. Timely inspections and corrective actions help maintain aircraft airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
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