Tail Rotor — Rotor Blades — Inspection / Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2015-0153R1
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must inspect affected tail rotor blades before each engine start following the use of external AC ground power after de-icing system operation, and perform corrective actions if discrepancies are found. Additionally, the helicopters must be modified according to the applicable service bulletins within 1,500 flight hours or 24 months from 3 June 2019. Completing the modification terminates the need for repetitive inspections.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0109 is an airworthiness directive addressing inspection and modification requirements for tail rotor rotor blades on Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, L, and L1 models equipped with specific tail rotor de-icing units and blades. It targets rotor blades with part number 332A12-0055-XX and aims to prevent structural damage caused by overheating due to uncontrolled power supply to the de-icing system. The directive mandates inspections and modifications to ensure continued safe operation of the affected helicopters.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0109 supersedes the previous AD 2015-0153R1 and retains its inspection requirements while introducing mandatory modifications to the tail rotor de-icing system to prevent unintended power supply. The new AD requires operators to perform inspections before engine start after specific events and to complete the modification within 1,500 flight hours or 24 months, whichever occurs first. This modification serves as terminating action for the repetitive inspections.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving potential overheating and damage to tail rotor blades, which could lead to significant vibrations and reduced helicopter control. Operators and maintenance teams must comply to avoid unsafe conditions that could compromise flight safety. The directive ensures that helicopters are equipped with design changes that prevent uncontrolled electrical power supply to the de-icing system, enhancing reliability and safety.
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