EASA AD 2025-0264
Main Rotor — Scissors Spherical Bearings — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0264 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus Helicopters H160-B models concerning the inspection of main rotor scissors spherical bearings, specifically part number U623A40T1007. The directive mandates inspections of both rotating and non-rotating scissors spherical bearings to detect excessive axial play that could compromise helicopter control. It applies to all serial numbers of the H160-B helicopter and includes detailed inspection intervals and corrective actions.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2025-0040 and expands inspection requirements to include non-rotating scissors spherical bearings in addition to rotating ones. It updates the definitions of affected and serviceable parts and introduces new inspection instructions as per the latest Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin H160-62-34-0001 Issue 005. The AD remains an interim action with potential for further updates.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for maintaining the safe operation of H160-B helicopters by ensuring early detection and correction of excessive axial play in scissors spherical bearings, which could otherwise reduce helicopter control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must adhere to the inspection schedules and corrective measures to prevent unsafe conditions. Compliance with this AD is mandatory to continue operating affected helicopters legally within EASA jurisdictions.
What To Do
Operators must inspect all affected scissors spherical bearings within specified compliance times, not exceeding those set by previous ADs, and continue with repetitive inspections at defined intervals. If axial play exceeds specified thresholds, parts must be replaced with serviceable ones before further flight. Inspection results must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within seven days of measurement. Installation of affected parts is only allowed if they are serviceable and inspected as required.