Main Rotor — Swashplate Boot — Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2020-0271R1, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected AB139, AW139, and AW189 helicopters must perform a detailed inspection and adhesive restoration within 25 flight hours for Group 1 helicopters and conduct repetitive inspections every 50 flight hours for Group 1 and Group 2 helicopters. Any discrepancies found must be corrected before the next flight. Additionally, installation of affected parts requires inspection and adhesive restoration within 25 flight hours after installation.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0271 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of the main rotor swashplate boot on Leonardo S.p.A. AB139, AW139, and AW189 helicopters. It focuses on the inspection and maintenance of the affected main rotor swashplate boot, specifically part number 3G6230V00251, to prevent in-flight failure of the external stainless steel rings bonded to the boot. The directive applies to all serial numbers of these helicopter models.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive detailed inspections of the affected rings and bonding adhesive on the main rotor swashplate boot. It requires restoring the adhesive bonding on certain helicopters and specifies corrective actions if discrepancies are found. Additionally, it allows installation of affected parts under strict inspection and maintenance conditions.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because failure to detect and correct corrosion or disbonding in the swashplate boot rings can lead to in-flight failures, potentially causing damage to the tail rotor and loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of affected helicopters. Compliance helps prevent costly damage and enhances flight safety.
More for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters AB139
All 46- EASA AD 2020-0271R1Main Rotor – Swashplate Boot – InspectionOct 8, 2026
- EASA AD 2025-0094R2Electrical Power – Overhead Panel Wires Interference – Inspection / ModificationAug 26, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0165Engine Exhaust – Nozzle Exhaust Duct Clamp Assembly – InspectionAug 18, 2026
- EASA AD 2025-0094R1Electrical Power – Overhead Panel Wires Interference – Inspection / ModificationJul 3, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0003Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment
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