Powerplant - Engine Air Induction Hoses - Inspection / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2019-12-18
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Robinson Model R44 II helicopters with orange silicone hose P/N A785-31 installed must inspect the hoses within 10 hours time-in-service after August 27, 2020, and repeat inspections every 100 hours TIS or at each annual inspection. Any hose showing separation or crinkling sounds must be removed from service immediately. Hoses marked with codes 1Q18, 3Q17, or with illegible markings must be removed within 50 hours TIS. Installation of these affected hoses is prohibited.
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2020-18-08 supersedes AD 2019-12-18 and applies to Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 II helicopters equipped with orange silicone engine air induction hoses part number A785-31. This directive mandates inspections and replacement of these hoses due to risks of separation between the hose's inner and outer layers, which could cause engine airflow blockage and potential helicopter control loss.
What changed
AD 2020-18-08 expands the applicability to only Model R44 II helicopters with orange silicone hose P/N A785-31 installed, clarifies that the hose must be removed for inspection, requires repeated inspections at intervals not exceeding 100 hours time-in-service or annual inspections, and broadens the installation prohibition to include hoses marked with manufacturing codes 1Q18, 3Q17, or with illegible markings. It also refines replacement timelines based on hose condition and manufacturing code.
Why it matters
This directive addresses a critical safety issue involving potential engine air induction hose failure that can lead to engine stoppage and loss of helicopter control. Operators, maintenance, and compliance personnel must ensure timely inspections and replacements to prevent accidents. The AD's requirements help maintain airworthiness and reduce risk associated with defective hose batches.
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New ADs and bulletins for Robinson R44 (Raven) and R44 II, summarized like this page, every Monday.