Main Rotor – Pitch Rod Upper Links – Marking / Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2023-0064, 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 must apply the specified alignment markings within 100 to 150 flight hours depending on the helicopter model, starting from the effective date of 2 March 2021. Following marking, visual inspections must be conducted every 10 flight hours. If any misalignment is found, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight. Compliance with the instructions in the applicable Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins is required.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0048 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters models AS 350, EC 130, AS 355, SA 365, and AS 365. It addresses a safety issue related to the main rotor pitch rod upper links, which if not corrected, could lead to loss of control of the helicopter. The directive mandates marking and repetitive inspections of these components to detect any loss of torque and prevent potential failures.
What changed
This directive introduces the requirement to apply alignment markings on the screws, washers, nuts, and horns of the main rotor pitch rod upper links and to perform repetitive visual inspections at specified intervals. It also requires corrective actions if misalignment is detected during inspections. This is a new regulation aimed at preventing abnormal wear and vibration caused by loss of screw tightening torque.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could result in loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The inspections and markings help detect early signs of component loosening, reducing the risk of in-flight failures and enhancing flight safety.
More for Airbus Helicopters AS 350
All 99- EASA AD 2025-0159R1Placards and Markings – Unlock Sliding Door – InstallationOct 19, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0052R2Instruments – Fuse Cover Attachment of Circuit Breaker Panel – ModificationSep 24, 2026
- EASA AD 2023-0214R1Fuselage – Tail Rotor Drive Shaft / Rear Transmission Bearing Support – Inspections / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2024-0144R1Tail Rotor Drive – Shaft-Line – Check / Measurement / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0146
Get the next one by email
New ADs and bulletins for these 7 aircraft types, summarized like this page, every Monday.