Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-21610 · Tail rotor control system
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters with serial number (S/N) up to and including 1254 (except S/N 1235), certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters. This AD requires modifying the tail rotor (T/R) control installation, a functional test, and corrective actions as necessary. This AD was prompted by cases of insufficient clearance between a certain T/R control bearing connection and the helicopter structure, which were detected on the production line. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Within 360 hours time-in-service, modify the T/R control by installing a Teflon washer and perform a functional test of the modification in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.B.2 through 3.B.4.2., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB EC135-67A-031, Revision 0, dated March 30, 2017. If, during the functional test, the clearance between the end of the close‐tolerance bolt, castellated nut, and the lower stringer is less than 1.0 mm, repair in accordance with FAA-approved procedures.
The aircraft, engines and makers this AD names, by the model designations in its text. A model listed here may still be outside the AD's serial ranges.
