EASA SIB 2023-01
Flight Control Rods — Cracks on Pitch Link Safety Swaging Areas
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2023-01 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing cracks found on the pitch link safety swaging areas of flight control rods in Hélicoptères Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters. The bulletin reports isolated occurrences of stress corrosion cracks in these rods, which do not affect the primary load path but warrant inspection and corrosion protection measures.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of stress corrosion cracks in the swaged areas of flight control rods on HG Cabri G2 helicopters and references Hélicoptères Guimbal Service Bulletin 21-006 revision B for inspection and corrosion protection procedures. It clarifies that the condition does not currently require an Airworthiness Directive under EU regulations.
Why It Matters
The information is important for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential flight control rod failures that could lead to catastrophic events. Understanding the risk and following inspection guidance helps maintain helicopter safety and airworthiness without imposing mandatory regulatory action.
What To Do
Operators of HG Cabri G2 helicopters should perform the inspection and corrosion protection actions described in Hélicoptères Guimbal Service Bulletin 21-006 revision B. They should also pay special attention to the swaged areas of the pitch link rods during the scheduled 100 flight hour or 12-month pitch link inspections as per the HG Cabri G2 Maintenance Manual task 41-B-06.