EASA SIB SW-17-29: Sikorsky (Schweizer, Hughes) 269C, 269C-1, 269D - Landing Gear Dampers Inspection

What to do

Operators and maintenance personnel should perform the one-time Load/Stroke Test on landing gear dampers for Sikorsky 269C, 269C-1, 269D, and 269D Configuration "A" models in accordance with the applicable Alert Service Bulletins or the updated Helicopter Basic Handbook of Maintenance Instructions if the dampers have not been serviced since April 15, 2014. Additionally, whenever a landing gear damper is removed for maintenance, a successful Load/Stroke Test is recommended. There is no mandatory compliance deadline, but adherence is strongly advised to prevent ground resonance incidents.

Summary

The FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: SW-17-29 provides guidance on inspecting landing gear dampers for Sikorsky (Schweizer, Hughes) 269C, 269C-1, 269D, and 269D Configuration "A" model rotorcraft. It highlights Alert Service Bulletins issued by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation recommending a one-time Load/Stroke Test of the landing gear dampers to prevent ground resonance issues. This bulletin is informational and does not mandate regulatory action.

What changed

This bulletin introduces a recommendation for a one-time Load/Stroke Test of landing gear dampers on the specified Sikorsky 269 models, as outlined in Sikorsky's Alert Service Bulletins dated April 15, 2014. It also notes that these test requirements have been incorporated into the current Helicopter Basic Handbook of Maintenance Instructions. No new airworthiness directive is issued, but the bulletin emphasizes adherence to these inspection procedures to mitigate ground resonance risks.

Why it matters

Proper maintenance and inspection of landing gear dampers are critical to preventing ground resonance, which can cause severe vibration and potentially lead to major structural damage or total loss of the rotorcraft. Operators, maintenance facilities, and compliance teams must be aware of these recommendations to ensure rotorcraft safety and avoid costly accidents. Following these guidelines helps maintain airworthiness and operational reliability of affected Sikorsky 269 models.