Rotors Flight Control — Tail Rotor Control System — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected EC135 and EC635 helicopters must perform a one-time tail rotor control system inspection within 12 months of 20 May 2020 if the helicopter is classified as Group 1. Additionally, all affected helicopters must be inspected after each hard landing before the next flight using qualified instructions. Any discrepancies found must be corrected before further flight, and maintenance programs should be updated to incorporate these inspection requirements.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0102 is an airworthiness directive addressing the tail rotor control system inspection for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH EC135 and EC635 models, including various subtypes up to serial number 1276. It mandates inspections of the tail rotor control system to ensure safety after hard landings and to prevent potential control failures. The directive applies to all affected EC135 and EC635 helicopters as specified.
What changed
This new directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the tail rotor control system on certain EC135 and EC635 helicopters and mandates inspections after every hard landing using qualified instructions. It also provides an alternative inspection method via the Aircraft Maintenance Manual and requires corrective actions if discrepancies are found. The directive addresses incomplete inspection instructions previously provided in the Master Service Manual.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures the detection and correction of potential tail rotor control system damage that could compromise helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain airworthiness and avoid unsafe conditions. It also clarifies inspection procedures and compliance recording, impacting maintenance planning and regulatory adherence.
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- EASA AD 2026-0024
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