EASA AD 2024-0104
Fuselage — Left Upper Cap Angle — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0104 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of the left upper cap angle, part number 212-030-191-1, on Leonardo AB212, AB412, and AB412 EP helicopters. The directive mandates repetitive inspections to detect cracks that could compromise the structural integrity of these helicopters. It applies to all serial numbers of the affected helicopter models and references specific service bulletins for inspection procedures.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0104 supersedes AD 2009-0185, reducing the interval for repetitive inspections from 100 flight hours to 25 flight hours. It also expands the applicability to include AB212 helicopters in addition to AB412 and AB412 EP models. The directive retains previous inspection requirements but updates compliance times and inspection intervals based on new findings.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of affected Leonardo helicopters by ensuring early detection of cracks in the left upper cap angle. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adhere to the shortened inspection intervals to prevent potential failures that could lead to unsafe flight conditions. Timely compliance helps avoid costly repairs and enhances overall flight safety.
What To Do
Operators of Leonardo AB212, AB412, and AB412 EP helicopters must inspect the left upper cap angle within 25 flight hours after the effective date or last inspection, then continue inspections every 25 flight hours. If any cracks or damage are found, operators must contact Leonardo for approved repair instructions and complete corrective actions before the next flight. Compliance with these inspection intervals is mandatory starting from 31 May 2024.