Tail Rotor Drive – Shaft-Line – Check / Measurement / Modification
- Published
- Effective
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 before the next flight after 2 August 2024, and then at intervals not exceeding 50 flight hours. Corrective actions must be taken if vibration thresholds are exceeded, and specific modifications must be completed within 600 flight hours or 24 months after 2 August 2024. Installation of certain part number combinations is prohibited from 2 August 2024 onward. Compliance with Airbus Helicopters Delivery Note DN.008.0140.1 is acceptable for helicopters with specified modifications.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0144R1 is a regulatory update addressing the tail rotor drive shaft-line on Airbus Helicopters EC 130 T2 models with specific part numbers installed. It mandates repetitive vibration level measurements, corrective actions, and modifications to certain tail rotor drive shaft components to prevent potential failure and loss of yaw control. The directive applies to helicopters with affected rear rotor drive shafts, sliding flanges, and equipped splined sleeves as defined by part numbers.
What changed
This revision introduces reference to Airbus Helicopters Delivery Note DN.008.0140.1 as an acceptable method for compliance with repetitive vibration checks, allowing extended intervals for helicopters with certain embodied modifications. It retains previous requirements for vibration measurement, corrective actions, and modifications but updates compliance methods and clarifies part installation prohibitions.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure the structural integrity and safe operation of the EC 130 T2 tail rotor drive system. Compliance prevents potential tail rotor drive shaft failure, which could lead to loss of yaw control and compromise flight safety. It also provides updated maintenance intervals and procedures, helping to optimize maintenance planning and reduce operational disruptions.
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- EASA AD 2023-0214R1Fuselage – Tail Rotor Drive Shaft / Rear Transmission Bearing Support – Inspections / ModificationSep 16, 2026
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