EASA AD 2022-0035
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2022-0046
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0035 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Leonardo S.p.A. AB212, AB412, and AB412EP helicopters. It addresses the inspection and replacement of tailboom attachment bolts and barrel nuts due to reports of cracking and fractures that could compromise the tailboom attachment. The directive mandates inspections, replacements, and torque checks to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This directive introduces a one-time inspection and/or replacement of specific tailboom attachment bolts and barrel nuts, along with recurrent torque checks and corrective actions as necessary. It is an interim measure pending further AD action and does not supersede any previous directives.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to tailboom attachment failure and loss of helicopter control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and replacements to maintain aircraft safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must replace the upper left-hand affected bolt within 25 flight hours or 3 months from 14 March 2022 and inspect other affected bolts and barrel nuts for corrosion or damage. If defects are found, replacement with serviceable parts is required before the next flight. Torque checks must be performed within 5 flight hours after bolt replacement or tailboom installation, with corrective actions taken if torque discrepancies persist.
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