EASA AD CF-2025-34
Tail Rotor — Tail Rotor Pitch Link Assembly Improper Washer Installation
Summary
The Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2025-34 addresses an issue with the tail rotor pitch link assembly on Bell Textron Canada Limited model 505 helicopters, specifically serial numbers 65464, 65465, 65467 through 65471, 65473, 65477, 65481, 65483, 65485, 65487 through 65489, 65517, 65553, 65571, 65572, 65575, and 65578. The directive mandates inspection and correction of improper washer installation in the tail rotor pitch link assembly to prevent potential failure. This AD is issued under Canadian Aviation Regulation 521.427 and becomes effective on 2025-07-17.
What Changed
This new Airworthiness Directive introduces a mandatory one-time inspection of the tail rotor pitch link assemblies for correct installation of the 206-010-795-105 washer. If improper installation or contact damage is found, affected parts must be removed, reassembled correctly, or replaced as specified in Bell Alert Service Bulletin 505-24-42. The AD enforces corrective actions to address a production quality issue discovered by Bell.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because improper washer installation can lead to fracture of the pitch horn stud, resulting in loss of directional control of the helicopter. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft safety and airworthiness. Failure to comply could lead to serious safety risks and regulatory violations.
What To Do
Operators of affected Bell 505 helicopters must perform a one-time inspection of the tail rotor pitch link assembly within 100 hours of flight time from 2025-07-17, following Bell ASB 505-24-42. If any signs of contact between the pitch link assembly and the conical washer or pitch horn are found, the affected components must be replaced before further flight. Compliance with these corrective actions is mandatory.