EASA AD 2019-0022
[Correction] Tail Rotor — Duplex Bearings — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0022 is a corrective directive addressing the replacement of tail rotor duplex bearings on Leonardo S.p.A. AB139, AW139, AW169, and AW189 helicopters. The directive targets specific part numbers and serial numbers of tail rotor duplex bearings identified as potentially defective due to a quality non-conformity. It mandates replacement of affected bearings to ensure continued airworthiness and safe operation of the helicopters.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0022 introduces a mandatory replacement of certain tail rotor duplex bearings on specified Leonardo helicopter models due to a reported failure in roughness checks linked to a defective ball in the bearing. The directive also prohibits installation of these affected parts on any helicopter from the effective date. This document is a correction to the original AD, updating the AD number on page 1.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure affected parts are replaced promptly to maintain airworthiness and comply with regulatory requirements. Failure to comply could result in operational restrictions or safety risks.
What To Do
Operators of Leonardo AB139, AW139, AW169, and AW189 helicopters must replace affected tail rotor duplex bearings within 30 flight hours or 30 days from 5 February 2019, whichever occurs first, following the instructions in the applicable Leonardo Alert Service Bulletins. Additionally, from the effective date, installation of any affected part is prohibited. Stakeholders should refer to the specified service bulletins for detailed replacement procedures.
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