Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-21783 · Tail rotor gearbox
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E helicopters, certificated in any category, with an affected part as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021-0031, dated January 22, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-0031) installed.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports that certain tail rotor gearbox assemblies were installed on Model A109E helicopters and those parts are not approved for installation on that helicopter model. Because those assemblies are not part of the type design for Model A109E helicopters, there are no overhaul or life limits included in the applicable maintenance manuals. This AD requires replacement of each affected tail rotor gearbox assembly with a serviceable part, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, EASA AD 2021-0031.
(1) Where EASA AD 2021-0031 requires compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(2) Where EASA AD 2021-0031 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) This AD does not mandate compliance with the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2021-0031.
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2021-0031 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.
