EASA AD 2025-0001
Tail Rotor — Rotor Head Slide of the Control Plate — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0001 is an airworthiness directive addressing Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, C1, L, and L1 models. It mandates a one-time inspection of the tail rotor head slide of the control plate to detect corrosion, scores, scratches, or cracks. The directive provides instructions for corrective actions including repair or replacement of affected parts to ensure continued safe operation.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the tail rotor head slide of the control plate on specified Airbus Helicopters AS 332 models delivered before 23 December 2024. It requires operators to inspect within 50 flight hours after 20 January 2025 and to perform corrective actions if any discrepancies are found. The directive also allows installation of inspected and approved parts from the effective date.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could lead to loss of tail rotor pitch control and subsequent loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent structural failure of the tail rotor head assembly. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of affected helicopters, avoiding operational disruptions and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus Helicopters AS 332 C, C1, L, and L1 models delivered before 23 December 2024 must perform a visual inspection of the tail rotor head slide of the control plate within 50 flight hours after 20 January 2025. If corrosion or damage is found, corrective actions such as corrosion removal, repair, or part replacement must be completed before the next flight. Inspection results with discrepancies must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within 30 days.