EASA AD 2019-0294
Stabilizers — Vertical Fin Vibration Absorber — Inspection / Removal
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0294 is an official regulatory document addressing the inspection and removal of the vertical fin vibration absorber on Leonardo S.p.A. A109S and AW109SP helicopters. It mandates inspections and corrective actions to address cracks and damage found on the vertical fin vibration absorber and surrounding structure. This directive applies to all serial numbers of the affected helicopter models and aims to ensure continued airworthiness and structural integrity.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0294 supersedes the previous AD 2014-0150 and expands the applicability to include additional helicopters that may have an affected part installed in production or service. It retains the inspection and removal requirements while prohibiting further installation of the affected vertical fin vibration absorber parts on any helicopter. The directive introduces new inspection intervals and removal deadlines for different groups of helicopters based on installation dates.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a structural safety concern that could compromise helicopter integrity if left uncorrected. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid unsafe conditions caused by cracks or damage to the vertical fin vibration absorber. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and prevents potential in-flight failures related to this component.
What To Do
Operators of affected A109S and AW109SP helicopters must perform inspections within 30 flight hours or 3 months for certain groups and continue at intervals not exceeding 100 flight hours. If damage or cracks are found, the affected part must be removed and repairs made before further flight. Removal of the affected part is required within 12 months of the effective date for all applicable helicopters, and installation of the affected part is prohibited from specified dates.
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