Tail Rotor — Tail Rotor Blades — Inspection / Replacement / Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2020-0224-E
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of AS 350 and AS 355 helicopters with affected tail rotor blades must perform visual inspections before each flight starting from 20 October 2020 and tapping inspections every 30 flight hours. Any detected discrepancies require immediate replacement of the affected blades with serviceable parts. Additionally, all affected parts must be replaced within 14 months of 20 October 2020, and installation of affected parts is prohibited from the effective date.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0224R1 is a regulatory document addressing inspection, replacement, and modification requirements for tail rotor blades on Airbus Helicopters AS 350 and AS 355 models. It targets specific pre-modification 075580 tail rotor blades identified by certain part numbers due to risks of debonding of leading edge protection shields. The directive mandates inspections and replacement to ensure continued airworthiness and safe operation of affected helicopters.
What changed
This revision of EASA AD 2020-0224R1 updates the list of serviceable tail rotor blade part numbers by adding some post-modification 075580 parts. It revises the original emergency AD 2020-0224-E by incorporating these changes and updating inspection and replacement instructions accordingly. The revision also confirms the prohibition of installing affected parts on any helicopter.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to loss of tail rotor control and potential loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply with the inspection and replacement requirements to prevent unsafe conditions. Compliance ensures the continued airworthiness of affected helicopters and avoids operational disruptions or regulatory penalties.
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