EASA AD 2019-0121R1
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2019-0193
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0121R1 is an updated safety directive addressing Leonardo S.p.A. AW169 and AW189 helicopters. It mandates inspections and monitoring of the tail rotor servo actuator and duplex bearing to prevent potential loss of yaw control due to incorrect installation or bearing degradation. The directive includes repetitive inspections, thermal strip installations, and corrective actions to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This revision corrects mismatches between compliance times specified in the original AD and those recommended in the applicable Leonardo Alert Service Bulletins. It retains previous inspection requirements while introducing improved inspection methods and additional repetitive checks for the tail rotor duplex bearing condition. The AD remains an interim measure pending further actions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent loss of helicopter control caused by tail rotor servo actuator or bearing issues. Compliance ensures early detection of potential failures, enhancing flight safety and reducing accident risk. It also provides clear instructions and timelines for inspections and corrective measures, aiding regulatory compliance and fleet management.
What To Do
Operators of AW169 and AW189 helicopters must perform initial and repetitive inspections of the tail rotor servo actuator nut and duplex bearing as specified in the directive's tables, install and monitor thermal strips, and carry out corrective actions if discrepancies are found. Inspections must begin within specified flight hour intervals, with some actions required within 10 to 20 flight hours after the effective date of 3 June 2019. Reporting inspection results to Leonardo is also mandatory within two days of each inspection.
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