Rotors Flight Control - Tail Rotor Pedal Support Brackets - Repetitive Inspections
- Published
- Effective
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected MD Helicopters models must begin repetitive inspections of tail rotor pedal support brackets by October 10, 2025, using the specified nondestructive inspection methods. If cracks or damage are found, the bracket must be replaced or refinished as directed. Installation of magnesium cast brackets with part numbers 369A7505-7, 369A7505-8, 369A7505-14, or 369A7505-15 is prohibited. Operators should consult the incorporated MD Helicopters service materials and may request alternative methods of compliance if needed.
Summary
The Federal Register document titled "Rotors Flight Control - Tail Rotor Pedal Support Brackets - Repetitive Inspections" is a final rule airworthiness directive (AD 2025-17-11) issued by the FAA affecting MD Helicopters, LLC models 369 (Army YOH-6A), 369A (Army OH-6A), 369D, 369E, 369F, 369FF, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 500N, and 600N. This AD addresses multiple reports of cracked tail rotor pedal support brackets by requiring repetitive inspections and, depending on findings, replacement or refinishing of affected brackets. It also prohibits installation of certain magnesium cast tail rotor pedal support brackets to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive nondestructive inspections (NDIs) for specific magnesium and aluminum cast tail rotor pedal support brackets identified by part numbers. It requires replacement or refinishing of brackets if cracks or damage are found and prohibits installation of certain magnesium cast brackets. The AD removes the previous requirement that inspections be performed only by Level II or Level III certified inspectors to reduce operator burden.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because cracked tail rotor pedal support brackets can lead to unsafe flight conditions, including forced emergency landings. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent structural failures and ensure helicopter safety. The repetitive inspection requirements and installation prohibitions directly impact maintenance planning, costs, and operational availability of affected MD Helicopters models.
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- EASA AD US-2024-23-06Rotorcraft Flight Control - Torque Tube Assembly and Roller Bearings - InspectionNov 20, 2024
- EASA AD US-2021-22-11Rotors Flight Control - Pilot-to-Copilot Tail Rotor Torque Tube - Inspection / RemovalDec 16, 2021
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