Rotors Flight Control – Main Rotor Actuator – Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2022-0067, 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 of EC135 and EC635 helicopters must inspect the nuts on the main rotor actuator pistons within three months or 50 flight hours from 27 December 2018, whichever occurs first. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland within 15 days after inspection or the effective date. Any detected damage requires contacting Airbus Helicopters for approved corrective instructions before further flight, or replacing the affected part with a serviceable one.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0284 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH EC135 and EC635 helicopter models. It mandates a one-time inspection of the main rotor actuator nuts on specified part numbers to detect cracks and displacement that could impair flight control. The directive applies to all variants and serial numbers of these helicopter models.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0284 introduces a mandatory inspection requirement for the main rotor actuator nuts on EC135 and EC635 helicopters to identify potential cracks and displacement. It also requires reporting inspection results to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland and provides criteria for the installation of serviceable parts. This directive is an interim safety action with potential for further follow-up directives.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety issue that could lead to loss of helicopter control due to damaged main rotor actuator components. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent accidents. Compliance ensures regulatory adherence and helps maintain safe flight operations for affected helicopter fleets.
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