EASA AD 2021-0144
Tail Rotor — Shaft Assembly — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0144 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of tail rotor shaft assemblies on Leonardo S.p.A. A109 series helicopters, including models A109C, A109K2, A109E, A109S, and AW109SP. The directive mandates inspections and measurements of specific tail rotor sleeve assemblies and related components to detect cracks and prevent potential failure of the tail rotor mast.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of affected tail rotor sleeve assemblies and bushings, a one-time inspection of the tail rotor shaft assembly, and corrective actions if discrepancies are found. It also requires reporting of any defects discovered during inspections and defines serviceable and updated parts for compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving potential tail rotor mast failure, which could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The directive also provides clear instructions for inspections and repairs, helping maintenance teams to effectively manage the affected components.
What To Do
Operators of affected Leonardo A109 helicopters must perform initial inspections within 25 flight hours or 3 months from 1 July 2021, whichever occurs first, and continue with repetitive inspections at specified intervals. Any detected discrepancies must be corrected before further flight, and reports of findings must be submitted to Leonardo within 30 days of inspection. Installation of affected parts is allowed only if they are serviceable, and replacing affected parts with updated parts can terminate repetitive inspection requirements.
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