EASA AD US-2021-04-16: Superseded by FAA AD 2021-08-18

What to do

Operators must perform a visual inspection of the right and left main landing gear assemblies and nose landing gear kit within 300 hours time-in-service after April 14, 2021, to identify affected threaded hinge pins and actuator pins. Any components with serial numbers listed in the Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 92-32-008 must be removed from service before further flight. Operators should obtain the service bulletin and follow its inspection and replacement procedures accordingly.

Summary

FAA Airworthiness Directive 2021-04-16 is a final rule addressing certain Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A helicopters with serial numbers 920006 through 920334. It mandates inspection and removal of specific landing gear components, including threaded hinge pins and main and nose landing gear actuator pins, due to nonconforming threads that reduce their life limits. This directive aims to prevent component failure that could compromise helicopter control during landing.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for affected landing gear components and mandates removal of any nonconforming threaded hinge pins and actuator pins identified by serial number. It updates the cost of compliance for replacement parts based on manufacturer input and clarifies that only certain parts require replacement, excluding others deemed to fail safely.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure continued airworthiness and safety of Sikorsky S-92A helicopters. Compliance prevents potential landing gear failures that could lead to accidents or loss of control during landing. It also provides updated cost information and clear compliance instructions to facilitate effective maintenance planning and regulatory adherence.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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