Main Rotor - Main Rotor Blade Leading Edge Abrasion Strip - Inspection
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected MD Helicopters must perform a tap inspection of each main rotor blade leading edge abrasion strip within 10 hours time-in-service after October 28, 2020, and before the first flight of each day thereafter until the abrasion strip accumulates 700 or more hours time-in-service. If any voids, blistering, bubbling, or lifting are detected, the blade must be repaired or replaced according to the Helicopter Technology Company service bulletin. Maintain records of inspections and corrective actions as required.
Summary
FAA Airworthiness Directive 2020-18-20 is a final rule addressing certain MD Helicopters Inc. models 369A, 369D, 369E, 369FF, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N equipped with specific main rotor blade part numbers fitted with 1.25 inch chord length nickel abrasion strips manufactured or installed by Helicopter Technology Company, LLC. The directive mandates inspections due to reports of abrasion strips detaching in flight, posing a safety risk. It requires tap inspections of the main rotor blade leading edge abrasion strips to detect damage or delamination.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory tap inspection requirement for the main rotor blade leading edge abrasion strips on affected MD Helicopters. The inspections must be performed within 10 hours time-in-service after the AD's effective date and before each flight thereafter until the abrasion strip reaches 700 hours time-in-service. The AD also specifies repair or replacement procedures if damage is detected.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety hazard where abrasion strips may detach from main rotor blades during flight, potentially compromising helicopter control. Operators, maintenance personnel, and compliance teams must implement these inspections to ensure continued airworthiness and prevent in-flight failures. Compliance with this AD helps maintain operational safety and regulatory adherence.
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