Tail Rotor — Hub Assembly — Inspection / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2019-0195
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of AS 332 and SA 330 helicopters must inspect and replace affected flapping hinge components and spindle bolts within specified flight hour limits depending on their helicopter group classification. Initial replacement must occur within 25 flight hours or the next scheduled inspection for Group 1 helicopters, with subsequent replacements at intervals of 250 flight hours for AS 332 and 300 flight hours for SA 330 models. Inspections of spindle bolts and bearings are also required at intervals not exceeding 50 flight hours for certain groups. Any detected cracks or discrepancies must be corrected before further flight.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0086 is an official regulatory document addressing inspection and replacement requirements for the tail rotor hub assembly on Airbus Helicopters AS 332 and SA 330 models. It mandates inspections and repetitive replacements of affected flapping hinge components and spindle bolts to prevent potential failure of the tail rotor system. The directive applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of these helicopter models.
What changed
EASA AD 2020-0086 supersedes the previous AD 2019-0195 and introduces more stringent measures by reducing the compliance time for the initial replacement of affected flapping hinge components. It consolidates previous Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins and mandates repetitive inspections and replacements at specified flight hour intervals to ensure continued airworthiness.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving potential failure of the tail rotor flapping hinge link, which could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid unbalanced tail rotors and possible detachment of the tail rotor gearbox and hub. Compliance ensures continued safe operation and regulatory adherence for affected helicopter fleets.
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