Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-21720 · Rotorcraft flight control
Airbus Helicopters
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC130B4 and Model EC130T2 helicopters, certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a jammed pilot collective pitch lever (collective). This AD requires inspecting the collective for proper engagement of the locking pin. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Within 90 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD or before the next autorotation training flight, whichever occurs first:
(1) For each collective, remove the protective boot along the collective and measure the clearance between the edge of the collective tab hook (a) and the edge of the low pitch locking pin (b) as shown in Figure 1 of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB No. EC130-67A019, Revision 0, dated February 23, 2016 (ASB EC130-67A019). If the clearance is less than 5 mm (0.196 in), before further flight:
(i) Adjust the clearance by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3., of ASB EC130-67A019.
(ii) Test the collective for proper engagement of the low pitch locking pin by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.4., of ASB EC130-67A019.
(2) Re-install the protective boot on the collective, ensuring that no boot folds have entered the space between the collective tab hook and the low pitch locking pin, by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.5., of ASB EC130-67A019.
