Main Rotor – Swashplate – Inspection

Published: Jun 30, 2026
Effective: Jul 7, 2026

AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.

What to do

Operators must perform initial inspections of the swashplate bolts within specified flight hour limits depending on previous inspection history and continue with repetitive inspections at intervals determined by measured bolt play. Bolts showing excessive wear must be replaced within defined compliance times, some before the next flight. Installation of new or inspected bolts must follow the inspection requirements.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0127 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of the main rotor swashplate and its bearing bolts on MBB-BK117 D-3 and D-3m helicopters. It mandates repetitive inspections of the swashplate bolts, specifically those with Part Number D623M2050206, to detect excessive wear that could compromise helicopter control.

What changed

This directive supersedes EASA Emergency AD 2025-0298-E by extending the compliance time for repetitive inspections and providing more detailed inspection instructions. It introduces updated inspection intervals based on measured vertical and radial play of the bolts and clarifies corrective actions required if wear limits are exceeded.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent bolt rupture that could lead to reduced helicopter control and potential accidents. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of affected MBB-BK117 helicopters by addressing a known unsafe condition proactively.

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