EASA AD 2025-0131
Main Rotor — Swashplate Nuts — Inspection / Reinstallation
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0131 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection and reinstallation of main rotor swashplate nuts, specifically Part Number NAS1805-4, on Leonardo S.p.A. A109 and A119 helicopter models including A109E, A109LUH, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119MKII. This directive mandates inspections and corrective actions to ensure proper torque application and safe operation of the main rotor assembly.
What Changed
This new regulation introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the affected swashplate nuts and requires reinstallation of the swashplate assembly using updated torque values as specified in Leonardo Alert Service Bulletins. It prohibits the use of previous maintenance instructions that contained incorrect torque values and establishes compliance timelines for inspections and corrective actions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because improper torque on swashplate nuts can lead to main rotor failure and potential loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and safety, preventing costly incidents and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators of affected Leonardo helicopter models must inspect the swashplate nuts within 50 flight hours of 30 June 2025 and repeat inspections every 200 flight hours. If damage is found, nuts must be replaced and the swashplate reinstalled within 200 flight hours. Even if no damage is detected, swashplate reinstallation is required within 2,400 flight hours. From the effective date, do not reinstall the swashplate assembly using outdated maintenance instructions.