Tail Rotor Drive – Shaft-Line – Check / Measurement
Superseded. Comply with 2023-0190R1, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected EC 130 T2 helicopters must perform initial and repetitive vibration checks of the tail rotor drive shaft within specified flight hour limits or before the next flight, as detailed in the directive. If vibration exceeds 1.4 IPS, approved corrective instructions from Airbus Helicopters must be followed before further flight. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within 14 days of each check.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0251-E is an emergency directive addressing Airbus Helicopters EC 130 T2 models equipped with specific tail rotor drive shafts (P/N 350A34-5010-00 or 350A34-5020-00). It mandates repetitive vibration level checks of the tail rotor drive shaft to detect potential cracks that could lead to failure and loss of yaw control. This directive applies to helicopters with Airbus Helicopters modification 079809 embodied in production.
What changed
This new emergency airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections measuring vibration levels of the tail rotor drive shaft on affected EC 130 T2 helicopters. It requires reporting inspection results to Airbus Helicopters and specifies corrective actions if vibration exceeds 1.4 inches per second. The directive also allows installation of affected parts only if inspected per the AD requirements.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential tail rotor drive shaft failure, which could cause loss of yaw control and compromise flight safety. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to avoid unsafe conditions and maintain airworthiness. The directive's reporting requirements also support ongoing safety monitoring and potential future corrective actions.
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- EASA AD 2023-0214R1Fuselage – Tail Rotor Drive Shaft / Rear Transmission Bearing Support – Inspections / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2024-0144R1Tail Rotor Drive – Shaft-Line – Check / Measurement / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0146
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