Rotor Drive – Main Gearbox Top Sensor – Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2019-0169, 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 EC 175 B helicopters with main gearboxes manufactured before 1 December 2018 must perform a visual inspection of the main gearbox top sensor within 10 flight hours after 25 January 2019 and repeat every 105 flight hours thereafter. If the sensor fails inspection, the main gearbox and main rotor mast assembly must be replaced before the next flight. Only serviceable main gearboxes may be installed from the effective date onward.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0003 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters EC 175 B models equipped with main gearboxes manufactured before 1 December 2018. The directive mandates inspections of the main gearbox top sensor to detect potential foreign object debris that could cause loss of lubrication and mast bearing seizure. This directive aims to ensure continued safe operation of the affected helicopters by requiring repetitive inspections and corrective actions as necessary.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0003 introduces mandatory repetitive visual inspections of the main gearbox top sensor on affected EC 175 B helicopters. It requires replacement of the main gearbox and main rotor mast assembly if the sensor fails inspection. The directive also defines serviceable parts and allows installation of only compliant main gearboxes from the effective date.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk related to potential foreign object debris in the main gearbox that could lead to mast bearing seizure and loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent in-flight failures and ensure airworthiness. Compliance teams need to track inspection intervals and corrective actions to meet regulatory requirements and maintain operational safety.
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