EASA AD 2020-0257
Rotors Flight Control — Main Rotor Actuator — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0257 is an airworthiness directive addressing the main rotor actuator (MRA) inspection on Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH MBB-BK117 C-2 and D-2 helicopters. It mandates repetitive inspections of specific main rotor actuators with part numbers B673M30A1002 or D673M30A1003 to detect cracks or damage in the piston nuts. The directive aims to ensure continued safe flight control by preventing potential loss of helicopter control.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0257 supersedes the previous AD 2018-0283 by introducing repetitive inspections of the affected main rotor actuator parts instead of a one-time inspection. It also provides updated criteria for installing affected parts and allows alternative inspection methods as specified in the applicable Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk involving cracked nuts on the main rotor actuator pistons, which could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply with the inspection intervals to ensure airworthiness and prevent accidents. Compliance with this AD is mandatory to maintain regulatory approval for operating affected MBB-BK117 helicopters.
What To Do
Operators of MBB-BK117 C-2 and D-2 helicopters with affected main rotor actuators must perform an initial inspection within 12 months since new or last overhaul, or within 3 months after 1 December 2020, whichever is later. Subsequent inspections must be repeated every 12 months. If any damage is found, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight, including contacting Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH for approved instructions. Installation of affected parts is only allowed if they meet the serviceable criteria defined in the AD.
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