Main Rotor – Swashplate Assembly – Modification
Superseded. Comply with 2025-0116, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Group 1 AS 332 L2 helicopters must replace the rotor shaft assembly within 36 months of 2024-09-05. Group 2 helicopters must modify the swashplate assembly and perform related modifications within the same timeframe. Installation of only post-mod 0728849 configuration parts is allowed from the effective date. Maintenance teams should follow Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin AS332-62.00.77 and related service information for compliance.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0168 is issued for Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, C1, L, L1, and L2 models to address a safety issue with the main rotor swashplate assembly. The directive mandates modifications to the rotor shaft and swashplate assemblies to prevent failure of the scissors link caused by seized ball joint-cups. This AD applies to all serial numbers of the affected helicopter models.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a required modification replacing the ball joint-cups assembly with a one-piece self-lubricated spherical bearing to prevent seizure and potential failure. It specifies different compliance actions for two groups of helicopters based on their modification status and allows alternative compliance methods such as replacing the main rotor hub assembly. The AD also prohibits installation of non-compliant parts from the effective date.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential loss of control risk due to failure of the rotating swashplate assembly. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and safety. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory non-compliance.
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