EASA AD 2025-0036
Equipment / Furnishings — Cargo Hook Assembly — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0036 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning Airbus Helicopters AS 350 series. It mandates inspection of the cargo hook assembly, specifically part number 17149-1, installed on AS 350 B, BA, BB, B1, B2, B3, and D helicopters. The directive addresses a potential safety issue related to the cargo hook's structural integrity.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections of the cargo hook assembly on affected AS 350 helicopters to detect any gap larger than 0.254 mm between the filler and side plates. It prohibits the installation of affected cargo hook parts and requires replacement if discrepancies are found. The directive also defines affected parts by serial number and sets compliance timelines.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to cargo hook failure, resulting in load loss and potential injury on the ground. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight operations and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators of AS 350 helicopters with affected cargo hooks must inspect the cargo hook within 550 sling cycles or 13 months from 26 February 2025, whichever occurs first. If the inspection reveals a gap exceeding 0.254 mm, the cargo hook must be replaced before the next hoist operation. Additionally, from the effective date, no affected cargo hook parts may be installed on any helicopter.