EASA AD 2019-0172
Main Rotor — Hub Assembly Lock Washer — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0172 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, C1, L, and L1 models. It mandates inspection of the main rotor hub assembly lock washer to ensure correct installation and prevent potential failure. The directive applies to specific main rotor hub assemblies with designated part numbers.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the lock washer position on affected main rotor hub assemblies. It also prohibits installation of any non-serviceable main rotor hub assembly from the effective date. The directive provides detailed inspection and corrective action instructions based on Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin AS332-62.00.76.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because incorrect installation of the main rotor hub lock washer can lead to main rotor rotation speed fluctuations and potential failure of rotor components. Detecting and correcting this issue is essential to maintain helicopter control and ensure flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid unsafe conditions and regulatory non-compliance.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the lock washer position on each affected main rotor hub assembly within 55 flight hours after 1 August 2019, following the Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin instructions. If an incorrect lock washer position is found, the affected part must be replaced with a serviceable part before the next flight. Only serviceable main rotor hub assemblies may be installed from the effective date onward.
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