EASA AD 2022-0052-E
Main Rotor — Hub Strap Pins — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0052-E is an emergency directive addressing the replacement of main rotor hub strap pins and mating strap fittings on Leonardo AB204B, AB205A-1, and AB212 helicopters. The directive targets specific main rotor hub strap pins with part number 204-012-104-005 and serial numbers starting with 'FNFS', as well as associated mating strap fittings. This action is necessary to prevent potential main rotor blade detachment due to pin failure.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2021-0165-E and introduces the additional requirement to replace affected mating strap fittings concurrently with the affected main rotor hub strap pins. It retains the previous requirement to remove and replace affected pins and prohibits installation of affected parts and fittings on any helicopter.
Why It Matters
The directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent catastrophic rotor failure that could lead to loss of helicopter control. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, reducing the risk of accidents related to defective rotor components. It also clarifies installation prohibitions to avoid recurrence of the unsafe condition.
What To Do
Operators of affected Leonardo AB204B, AB205A-1, and AB212 helicopters must replace all affected main rotor hub strap pins and mating strap fittings before the next flight after the directive's effective date of 25 March 2022. Additionally, installation of any affected parts or fittings is prohibited from 9 July 2021 and the directive's effective date onward. Maintenance must follow approved instructions for replacements.
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