EASA AD US-2021-26-09: Tail Rotor - Tail Rotor Hub - Inspections / Removal

What to do

Affected operators must perform the required inspections within 100 hours time-in-service or at the next annual inspection after January 19, 2022, whichever occurs first, and repeat inspections every 100 hours and at each annual inspection thereafter. If any cracks, corrosion, or pitting are found during inspections, the tail rotor hub must be removed from service before further flight. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by the FAA's Fort Worth ACO Branch.

Summary

Federal Register Volume 86, Number 238 (December 15, 2021) is a final rule airworthiness directive issued by the FAA for Brantly Helicopters Industries U.S.A. Co., Ltd. Model 305 and Brantly International, Inc. Models B-2, B-2A, and B-2B helicopters. It addresses cracks found in the tail rotor hub, specifically part numbers 161-1 and 2951, which could compromise tail rotor control.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the tail rotor hub using cleaning, magnifying glass inspection, and dye penetrant inspection techniques. It requires removal from service of any tail rotor hub found with cracks, corrosion, or pitting. This AD applies specifically to helicopters with tail rotor hub part numbers 161-1 or 2951 installed.

Why it matters

This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could lead to loss of tail rotor control and subsequent loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must implement these inspections to ensure continued airworthiness and compliance with FAA regulations. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory penalties.