EASA AD 2025-0235
Engine — Vibration Levels — Measurements / Inspections
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0235 is an airworthiness directive addressing engine vibration levels and inspections for WSK “PZL-ŚWIDNIK” S.A. PZL W-3A and W-3AS model helicopters. It mandates repetitive engine vibration measurements, inspections of the main gearbox and engine interfaces, and a one-time oil sample collection to detect potential unsafe conditions related to increased pinion gear play and bearing damage. The directive aims to prevent fire hazards and possible loss of helicopter control due to these issues.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0235 supersedes AD 2025-0149 and retains its requirements while introducing an additional one-time oil sampling and reporting action. It consolidates previous vibration measurement and inspection mandates and adds new compliance steps to enhance detection of parts degradation. This AD is considered an interim action with potential further directives to follow.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of PZL W-3A and W-3AS helicopters by identifying early signs of mechanical degradation that could lead to severe engine damage or fire. Compliance helps prevent in-flight failures and enhances operational safety. It also ensures adherence to European aviation safety regulations, avoiding regulatory penalties and grounding of aircraft.
What To Do
Operators must perform engine vibration level measurements within 25 flight hours or 30 days from 7 June 2022 and continue at specified intervals. Visual inspections of engine-to-main gearbox interfaces must be done before and after daily flights starting 28 July 2025, along with oil filter and chip detector inspections every 25 flight hours or 15 days. Additionally, an oil sample must be collected and reported within 30 days after 6 November 2025. Corrective actions must be taken immediately if discrepancies are found.