EASA AD 2026-0003
Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0003 is an amendment concerning the time limits and maintenance checks specified in the Airworthiness Limitations Section for Leonardo S.p.A. AB139 and AW139 helicopters. This directive updates the mandatory maintenance tasks and life limits as defined in the Leonardo Maintenance Manual, ensuring continued airworthiness of these helicopter models.
What Changed
EASA AD 2026-0003 supersedes the previous AD 2018-0132 and introduces new and/or more restrictive maintenance tasks and life limits as published in Issue 015 of the Airworthiness Limitations Section of the Leonardo Maintenance Manual. It requires operators to comply with updated thresholds and intervals for maintenance tasks and component replacements.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it mandates compliance with updated maintenance requirements to prevent unsafe conditions. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure that all tasks and life limits are adhered to, reducing the risk of component failure and enhancing flight safety. It also affects the approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme, requiring timely updates to remain compliant.
What To Do
Operators of AB139 and AW139 helicopters must replace components before exceeding life limits and perform all maintenance tasks within specified intervals starting from 26 January 2026. They must revise their approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme within 12 months to incorporate the new limitations and tasks. Any discrepancies found during maintenance must be corrected before the next flight, and if existing instructions are insufficient, contact Leonardo for approved corrective actions.