EASA AD 2023-0035
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2026-0045
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0035 is issued for Leonardo S.p.A. A119 and AW119MKII helicopters up to serial number 14999 inclusive. It addresses inspection and replacement requirements for the collective stick torque tube assemblies with part number 109-0011-03-105 due to manufacturing defects causing abnormal rotations. The directive mandates repetitive inspections and corrective actions to ensure continued safe operation.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0035 supersedes AD 2021-0096 by expanding the applicability to all collective stick torque tube assemblies with part number 109-0011-03-105. It reduces the interval between repetitive inspections and simplifies the inspection methodology. The directive also allows installation of serviceable affected parts under specific inspection conditions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to reduced helicopter control and forced landings. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent accidents and ensure airworthiness. The expanded scope and shortened inspection intervals require updated maintenance planning and resource allocation.
What To Do
Operators must inspect affected torque tube assemblies within 50 flight hours after the effective date and then every 100 flight hours thereafter, following Leonardo Alert Service Bulletin 119-098 Revision B. Any detected deficiencies must be corrected by replacing the affected part before the next flight. Installation of affected parts is only allowed if they are serviceable and pass inspection prior to flight.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.