Rotors Flight Control – Tail Rotor Actuator – Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Replaces
- 2023-0090
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must inspect the cable tie positioning on affected tail rotor actuators within 165 flight hours after 18 May 2023 and perform corrective actions if necessary. For Group 2 helicopters, the routing of the yaw harness must be modified within 660 flight hours or 26 months after 6 July 2026, whichever occurs first. Helicopters previously modified per earlier service bulletin revisions require an operational test within 2 months after the effective date of this AD.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0118 is issued for Airbus Helicopters SA 365 N, SA 365 N1, AS 365 N2, and AS 365 N3 models. It addresses inspection and modification requirements for tail rotor actuators with part numbers 704A47135036 or 704A47135059 to prevent interference that could block tail rotor pedal control. The directive mandates inspections and modifications to ensure safe yaw control of affected helicopters.
What changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2023-0090 and retains its inspection requirements while introducing a mandatory modification of the yaw harness routing on Group 2 helicopters. It incorporates updated Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins that provide detailed instructions for inspection and modification to prevent interference between the tail rotor actuator harness cable tie and the tail gearbox cowling pin fastener.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for maintaining safe flight operations by preventing potential loss of yaw control caused by tail rotor pedal blockage. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely inspections and modifications to avoid unsafe conditions that could lead to accidents. Compliance with this AD supports continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence for affected helicopter models.
More for Airbus Helicopters SA
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- EASA PAD 26-105Tail Rotor Drive – Tail Gear Box Control Rod Bearings – Replacement / Life LimitationSep 11, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0029Tail Rotor Drive — Tail Gear Box Input Flange — Functional ChecksFeb 12, 2026
- EASA PAD 26-017Powerplant — Engine Firewalls — ModificationJan 29, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0011Doors — Jettisonable Windows and Seals on the Sliding Doors and Fixed Panels — Modification
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