EASA AD 2022-0117
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2022-0255
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0117 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting SAFRAN Helicopter Engines RTM 322-01/9 engines, commonly installed on NH Industries NH90 military helicopters. The directive mandates compliance with updated airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks as specified in the SAFRAN RTM 322-01/9 Engine Base Maintenance Manual Airworthiness Limitations Section approved on 30 April 2022.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2020-0150 and introduces new mandatory inspections, including an additional inspection of the second stage stator vane at each Module 1 overhaul and mandatory life limits for repaired combustion chamber parts. It also incorporates all new and more restrictive maintenance tasks and life limits introduced since the previous ALS revision.
Why It Matters
Compliance with EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0117 is critical to ensure the continued airworthiness and safe operation of RTM 322-01/9 engines. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must update their maintenance programs to include these new limitations and inspections to prevent unsafe conditions and potential engine failures.
What To Do
Affected operators must revise their approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme within 12 months of the effective date to incorporate the updated airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. They must also perform all required maintenance tasks and replace life-limited parts before exceeding specified limits, including the new mandatory inspections. Any discrepancies found during maintenance must be corrected according to SAFRAN documentation before further flight.
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