Tail Rotor Drive — Shaft-Line — Check / Measurement / Modification
Superseded. Comply with 2024-0144R1, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2023-0190R1
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must perform vibration level measurements within 50 flight hours after installation of affected parts or by 2 August 2024, whichever is later, and repeat every 50 flight hours. For Groups 1, 2, and 3 helicopters, modifications must be completed within 600 flight hours or 24 months after 2 August 2024. Any vibration exceeding specified thresholds requires part removal and replacement per Airbus Helicopters service bulletins. Reporting of high vibration measurements to Airbus Helicopters is mandatory within 30 days.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0144 is issued for Airbus Helicopters EC 130 T2 models equipped with specific tail rotor drive shaft components. It addresses the inspection, measurement, and modification requirements for the tail rotor drive shaft, sliding flange, and equipped splined sleeve to prevent potential failures. The directive mandates repetitive vibration checks and modifications to certain helicopter groups to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This directive supersedes previous AD 2023-0190R1 and expands the scope to include additional affected parts with specific part numbers. It introduces new modification requirements for Groups 1, 2, and 3 helicopters and updates vibration measurement thresholds and procedures. The AD also prohibits balance corrections except during specified part replacements and clarifies installation restrictions for certain parts.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent tail rotor drive shaft failures that could lead to loss of yaw control. Compliance ensures early detection of vibration issues and proper corrective actions, enhancing flight safety. It also affects maintenance planning by imposing new inspection intervals and modification deadlines, requiring close attention to part numbers and maintenance tasks.
More for Airbus Helicopters AS 350
All 99- EASA AD 2025-0159R1Placards and Markings – Unlock Sliding Door – InstallationOct 19, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0052R2Instruments – Fuse Cover Attachment of Circuit Breaker Panel – ModificationSep 24, 2026
- EASA AD 2023-0214R1Fuselage – Tail Rotor Drive Shaft / Rear Transmission Bearing Support – Inspections / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2024-0144R1Tail Rotor Drive – Shaft-Line – Check / Measurement / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0146
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