EASA AD 2022-0258
Main Rotor Drive — Main Transmission Support Case — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0258 is an airworthiness directive addressing the main rotor drive main transmission support case for Leonardo S.p.A. AB212, AB412, and AB412EP helicopters. It mandates inspections and possible replacement of the main transmission support case to detect and correct cracks caused by corrosion, which could compromise helicopter control.
What Changed
This new directive introduces mandatory repetitive visual and fluorescent penetrant inspections of the main transmission support case on affected helicopter models. It specifies inspection intervals based on helicopter groups and total hours in service, and requires replacement or repair if damage or cracks are found.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential loss of load carrying capability of the main transmission, which could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and safety of the affected helicopters.
What To Do
Operators must perform initial and repetitive visual inspections within specified hours time in service depending on helicopter group, followed by fluorescent penetrant inspections for certain groups. Any corrosion, damage, or cracks found must be repaired or replaced before next flight. Compliance begins from the effective date of 2023-01-03.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.