EASA AD 2018-0283
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2020-0257
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0283 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH MBB-BK117 C-2 and D-2 helicopters. It addresses a safety issue related to the main rotor actuator (MRA) parts with part numbers B673M30A1002 and D673M30A1003. The directive mandates inspection and reporting requirements to ensure continued safe operation of these helicopters.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0283 introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the main rotor actuator nuts on affected MBB-BK117 C-2 and D-2 helicopters. It requires operators to inspect the nuts for cracks or displacement, report inspection results to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH, and take corrective actions if defects are found. The directive also defines criteria for installation of serviceable parts and allows installation of inspected or new parts only.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential loss of helicopter control due to cracked or displaced nuts on the main rotor actuator, which could lead to accidents or injuries. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure airworthiness and safety, preventing possible damage or injury. Compliance with this AD is mandatory to maintain regulatory approval for helicopter operation.
What To Do
Operators of MBB-BK117 C-2 and D-2 helicopters must inspect the main rotor actuator nuts within 3 months or 50 flight hours from 27 December 2018, whichever occurs first. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH within 15 days after inspection or after the effective date, whichever is later. If any damage is found, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight, including contacting Airbus Helicopters for approved instructions or replacing the affected part with a serviceable one.
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