EASA AD 2023-0107
[Correction] Equipment / Furnishings — Cargo Swing Frame — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0107 is a safety directive addressing Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B2, AS 350 B3, and EC 130 B4 models equipped with cargo hook Part Number 704A41811035 and any cargo swing frame. The directive mandates inspection of the cargo swing frame to prevent failure during flight, which could lead to load loss and potential helicopter control issues. It applies specifically to these helicopter models and their cargo swing installations.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0107 corrects the previously published inspection criteria by clarifying that the repetitive inspection interval for the cargo swing frame must be based on swing cycles rather than operating hours. The correction updates the number of accumulated swing cycles in the inspection compliance table to ensure accurate maintenance scheduling.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk involving broken cargo swing frames that could lead to load loss and compromised helicopter control. Operators and maintenance teams must adjust their inspection schedules to swing cycles to prevent operating beyond safe limits, ensuring continued airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the cargo swing installation and frame within the compliance times specified based on accumulated swing cycles: before exceeding 550 cycles if less than 550 are recorded, or before the next swing cycle if 550 or more are recorded. If discrepancies are found during inspection, corrective actions must be taken before the next flight by following Airbus Helicopters' approved instructions.
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