EASA AD 2024-0243
Rotors Flight Control — Pilot Cyclic Stick Bonding Braid — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0243 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting all Airbus Helicopters EC 120 B helicopters. It mandates inspection and securing of the pilot cyclic stick bonding braid to prevent flight control restrictions. The directive addresses a safety issue related to the bonding braid position on the pilot cyclic stick socket.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the bonding braid on the pilot cyclic stick of EC 120 B helicopters. It also requires corrective actions if the bonding braid is found in an incorrect position and mandates securing the bonding braid with a binding clamp. The directive is based on Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC120-67-10-0001.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because an incorrectly positioned bonding braid can restrict cyclic stick movement, potentially leading to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain flight safety and airworthiness. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory violations.
What To Do
Operators of EC 120 B helicopters must inspect the bonding braid position within 110 flight hours or 6 months from 27 December 2024, whichever comes first. If the bonding braid is incorrectly positioned, corrective actions must be completed before the next flight. After inspection and any necessary corrections, the bonding braid must be secured with a binding clamp before further flight.