EASA AD 2023-0149
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2025-0064
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0149 is an airworthiness directive issued for Leonardo S.p.A. AW189 helicopters. It addresses potential cracking damage in the ejector duct parts on both left-hand and right-hand sides of the engine exhaust system. The directive mandates inspections and possible replacement of affected ejector ducts to ensure continued safe operation.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0149 introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the ejector duct parts P/N 8G7810P00131 (LH side) and P/N 8G7810P00231 (RH side) on AW189 helicopters. It requires replacement of any affected part found with discrepancies and reporting of inspection results to Leonardo. This AD is an interim measure pending further investigation and possible future actions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because undetected cracks in the ejector duct could lead to part detachment, potentially impacting the tailplane or tail rotor and causing loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance teams must comply to prevent safety risks and ensure regulatory compliance. The AD also facilitates data collection for ongoing safety assessments.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the affected ejector ducts within 25 flight hours after 26 July 2023 and then every 50 flight hours thereafter, following Leonardo Service Bulletin 189-384 instructions. If any discrepancies are found, the affected part must be replaced before the next flight. Additionally, inspection findings must be reported to Leonardo within 30 days of detection.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.