EASA AD 2021-0255
[Correction] Rotors Flight Control — Control Rods and Levers — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0255 is a safety directive addressing inspection requirements for control rods and levers in the rotors flight control system of Leonardo S.p.A. A109S helicopters equipped with TREKKER KIT (serial numbers 22735, 22736, 22737) and AW109SP helicopters (serial numbers 22407, 22408, 22409, 22412, 22414 to 22427, and 22429). The directive mandates inspection for foreign objects that could impede flight control movement.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0255 introduces a one-time inspection requirement to detect and remove any protective sheaths or foreign objects found on the control rods and levers of the rotors flight control system. This correction clarifies the applicability of the TREKKER KIT to A109S helicopters only and provides updated references to the applicable Leonardo Alert Service Bulletins.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential flight control restrictions caused by foreign object contamination, which could reduce helicopter control and safety. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid operational risks associated with undetected foreign objects in flight control components.
What To Do
Operators of affected A109S and AW109SP helicopters must inspect the specified control rods and levers within 50 flight hours or 3 months from the effective date of 29 November 2021, whichever occurs first. If any foreign object is found during inspection, it must be removed before the next flight following the instructions in the applicable Leonardo Alert Service Bulletins.
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