Propellers - Blades - Inspection / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2020-12-07
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must perform initial and repetitive eddy current inspections of all propeller blades installed on Hamilton Sundstrand 54H60 propeller hubs. Any blade failing inspection must be replaced before further flight. Compliance with this AD is mandatory by May 27, 2022, the effective date of the directive. Operators should also review maintenance records to determine blade manufacture dates and overhaul status as part of compliance.
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2022-08-10 addresses safety concerns for Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation 54H model propellers, specifically those with 54H60 model propeller hubs. This final rule mandates inspections and potential replacement of propeller blades to prevent failures caused by corrosion and cracking. The directive applies to propellers installed on aircraft such as the US Marine Corps Reserve KC-130T and other affected operators.
What changed
Airworthiness Directive 2022-08-10 supersedes AD 2020-12-07 by expanding inspection requirements to all propeller blades installed on Hamilton Sundstrand 54H60 propeller hubs, regardless of blade serial number or overhaul status. It requires initial and repetitive eddy current inspections of the blades and mandates replacement of any blade that fails inspection. The directive incorporates updated service information from Hamilton Sundstrand Alert Service Bulletins.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a fatal unsafe condition caused by blade separation due to corrosion and cracking. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent catastrophic propeller blade failure, which can result in loss of aircraft and lives. The expanded inspection scope increases maintenance workload and cost but is essential for continued airworthiness and safety.
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