EASA AD 2024-0142
Fuselage — Rear MGB Suspension Bar Fittings Attachment Screws — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0142 is an airworthiness directive addressing Airbus Helicopters AS332 L2 and EC225 LP models. It mandates the replacement of rear main gearbox (MGB) suspension bar fittings attachment screws, specifically part number 332A22-3644-20, due to identified overlength and deformation issues. The directive applies to helicopters with Airbus Helicopters modification 07.28496 or those that have incorporated specific Alert Service Bulletins in service.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory replacement of affected attachment screws within 2,500 flight hours of first installation. It also requires inspection of removed parts and reporting of inspection results to Airbus Helicopters. The directive allows installation of affected parts only if they are serviceable and installed per the specified service bulletin instructions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential structural failure of the rear MGB suspension bar fittings, which could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The directive also facilitates data collection to support ongoing investigations into the unsafe condition.
What To Do
Operators must replace each affected attachment screw with a serviceable part within 2,500 flight hours from first installation and inspect the removed parts according to Airbus Helicopters service bulletins. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within 30 days after replacement. Installation of affected parts is only permitted if they are serviceable and installed following the service bulletin instructions.