Rotors — Main Rotor Blade Attachment Bolts — Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must inspect each affected bolt within 100 flight hours or 3 months from 4 September 2024, whichever occurs first, and then at intervals defined by inspection results. Any defective bolts must be repaired or replaced before further flight. Inspection results must be reported to PZL-Swidnik within 30 days. Only serviceable bolts may be installed after the effective date, and periodic inspections must continue as specified.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0166 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of main rotor blade attachment bolts on PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters. It mandates repetitive inspections of bolts with Part Number 37.21.000.50.00 for corrosion and damage, with repair or replacement as necessary. The directive aims to prevent potential failure of these critical bolts which could lead to loss of a main rotor blade and subsequent loss of helicopter control.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the main rotor blade attachment bolts on all PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters. It requires cleaning, inspecting, and, if defects are found, repairing or replacing the bolts according to the manufacturer's alert service bulletin. Additionally, it establishes reporting requirements for inspection results and regulates installation of these bolts to ensure continued airworthiness.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because corrosion was found on bolts well below their service life, indicating a potential safety risk. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent bolt failure that could cause catastrophic rotor blade loss. Compliance ensures continued safe operation and adherence to regulatory requirements, avoiding grounding or penalties.
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