[Correction] Main Rotor — Main Rotor Pitch Rod End Bearings — Replacement
- Published
- Effective
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Airbus Helicopters H160-B must replace affected main rotor pitch rod end bearings within the specified compliance times based on flight hours accumulated, and then at intervals not exceeding 165 flight hours. Each replacement must be reported to Airbus Helicopters within seven days, including sending the removed parts for analysis. Installation of affected parts is only permitted if they are new and will be replaced as required by the directive.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0001-E is an emergency directive addressing Airbus Helicopters H160-B models. It mandates the replacement of main rotor pitch rod end bearings due to a reported in-flight rupture that caused significant vibrations and forced a ditching. The directive applies to all serial numbers of the H160-B helicopter and specifies affected part numbers for both upper and lower pitch rod end bearings.
What changed
This directive introduces a correction to the designation of the pitch rod end bearings in the affected part definition. It requires repetitive replacement of the affected bearings with serviceable parts at intervals not exceeding 165 flight hours. Additionally, it mandates reporting each replacement to Airbus Helicopters within seven days and allows installation of affected parts only if they are new and subsequently replaced as required.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety issue that could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent in-flight failures and potential accidents. The directive also affects maintenance scheduling and parts management due to the repetitive replacement and reporting requirements.
More for Airbus Helicopters H160
All 32- EASA AD 2026-0198Doors – Emergency Exit Rope on the Jettisonable Window Systems – CleaningOct 19, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0196Equipment / Furnishings – System Interface Unit – ReplacementOct 13, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0193Doors – Jettisonable Window Mechanism – Lubrication / Operational Test / ModificationOct 9, 2026
- EASA PAD 26-116Equipment / Furnishings – System Interface Unit – ReplacementSep 25, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0184
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