EASA AD 2021-0015
Fuselage — Tail Boom — Inspection / Modification / Repair
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0015 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting all Airbus Helicopters EC 120 B models. It addresses corrosion found on the external tail boom skin under the VHF antenna, which could compromise the tail boom structure and potentially cause a helicopter rollover during landing. The directive mandates inspection, modification, and repair procedures to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement of the VHF antenna attachments on the tail boom of EC 120 B helicopters. Depending on inspection results, operators must either modify the tail boom to prevent galvanic corrosion or repair detected corrosion or cracks. It also establishes requirements for inspecting and modifying or repairing tail booms prior to installation on any helicopter.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a hidden corrosion issue that could lead to structural failure and serious accidents. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory compliance. The directive ensures that tail boom integrity is preserved, reducing the risk of costly damage and enhancing operational safety.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the VHF antenna attachments on the tail boom within six months of 27 January 2021, following Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC120-53A017 Revision 1. If no corrosion or cracks are found, the tail boom must be modified before the next flight. If corrosion or cracks are detected, repairs must be completed before the next flight according to Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin EC120-53-018. Additionally, any tail boom installed after the effective date must be inspected and modified or repaired as applicable prior to installation.
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