EASA AD 2025-0017R1
Fuselage — Tail Rotor Pylon — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0017R1 is an updated safety directive addressing inspection requirements for the tail rotor pylon fuselage on Airbus Helicopters EC 175 B models. It mandates repetitive visual inspections to detect loose rivets and cracks that could compromise the structural integrity of the tail rotor pylon. The directive applies to all serial numbers of the EC 175 B helicopter and provides guidance on corrective repairs if discrepancies are found.
What Changed
This revision clarifies the conditions under which repairs not provided by Airbus Helicopters but approved by the authority can be used as corrective actions. It updates the original directive issued on 14 January 2025 by specifying repair approval procedures and emphasizes that the directive remains an interim action pending further updates.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent structural failure of the tail rotor pylon, which could lead to excessive vibrations and endanger flight safety. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, avoiding unauthorized operation of affected helicopters. It also provides a clear process for obtaining approved repairs, facilitating timely and effective maintenance.
What To Do
Operators must perform a visual inspection of the tail rotor pylon within 55 flight hours from 21 January 2025 and repeat inspections every 110 flight hours thereafter, following Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC175-05-00-0005. If any discrepancies are found, repairs must be carried out before the next flight using approved instructions from Airbus Helicopters or an alternative method of compliance authorized by EASA. Stakeholders should monitor for further AD updates as this is an interim measure.