Main Rotor Drive - Clutch Shaft Forward Yoke - Inspection / Removal / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Replaces
- 2024-19-11
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of Robinson R44 and R44 II helicopters must perform visual inspections of the flex plate and yokes within 100 hours time-in-service after July 11, 2025, and follow repetitive inspection schedules as specified. If any cracks, corrosion, or loose fasteners are found, affected parts must be removed and replaced before further flight. Alternative inspections using the specified paint remover and magnetic particle inspection are allowed under clarified conditions.
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2025-11-07 is a final rule addressing Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 and R44 II helicopters. It mandates inspections and possible replacements of the main rotor drive clutch shaft forward yoke and flex plate assembly to detect fatigue cracking and prevent unsafe conditions. This directive updates previous requirements to clarify inspection procedures and introduces a specific paint remover option for alternative inspections.
What changed
Airworthiness Directive 2025-11-07 supersedes AD 2024-19-11 by clarifying that alternative inspections of the clutch shaft forward yoke are repetitive and adding a new approved paint remover for these inspections. It also revises compliance wording to allow installation of yokes after magnetic particle inspection and updates inspection procedures accordingly.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential failure of the main rotor drive due to fatigue cracking in the clutch shaft forward yoke, which could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance teams must adhere to the clarified inspection intervals and methods to ensure continued airworthiness and safety. Compliance helps avoid costly unscheduled repairs and enhances operational reliability.
More for Robinson R44 (Raven)
All 19- EASA AD US-2024-23-01Main Rotor Drive / Rotors Flight Control - Clutch Actuator Brackets - InspectionDec 4, 2024
- EASA AD US-2024-20-07Equipment / Furnishings - Emergency Float Kit Activation Handle - Repetitive Inspections / ReplacementNov 29, 2024
- EASA AD US-2024-20-03Flight Controls - Governor Controller - ReplacementNov 26, 2024
- EASA SIB SAIB-2024-05Engine / Transmission Coupling, Gearmotor AssemblyNov 11, 2024
- EASA AD US-2024-19-11SUPERSEDED BY FAA AD 2025-11-07
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New ADs and bulletins for Robinson R44 (Raven), summarized like this page, every Monday.