EASA AD 2022-0084
Fuselage — Tailboom / Fin Spar Cap — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0084 is an airworthiness directive issued by EASA that applies to Leonardo S.p.A. AB212, AB412, and AB412EP helicopters. It mandates repetitive inspections of the left-hand fin spar cap, part number 212-030-447-117, and the adjacent fin skin to detect fatigue cracks that could compromise structural integrity. The directive provides inspection instructions based on Leonardo service bulletins SB 212-213 and SB 412-168.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the tailboom fin spar cap and adjacent fin skin for all serial numbers of AB212, AB412, and AB412EP helicopters. It requires inspections within 100 flight hours after the effective date and at intervals not exceeding 100 flight hours thereafter. If cracks or discrepancies are found, operators must contact Leonardo for approved repair instructions and complete repairs accordingly.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected helicopters by preventing potential fatigue crack propagation in the fin spar cap, which could lead to loss of control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and repairs to avoid unsafe conditions. Adhering to this AD helps ensure continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance for the affected helicopter models.
What To Do
Operators of AB212, AB412, and AB412EP helicopters must perform inspections of the left-hand fin spar cap and adjacent fin skin within 100 flight hours from 2022-05-25 and repeat inspections every 100 flight hours thereafter. If any damage or cracks are detected, they must contact Leonardo for repair instructions and complete the repairs before the next flight. These inspections are mandatory and must be continued unless otherwise specified in the repair instructions.
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