Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-22799 · Main rotor blades
Airbus Helicopters
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, and AS355N helicopters, certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, and AS355N helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports of debonding on the leading edge protection of certain part-numbered main rotor blades (MRBs). This AD requires repetitively tap inspecting the MRB and, depending on the results, taking corrective action. This AD also prohibits installing an affected MRB on any helicopter unless its requirements are met. These actions are 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 paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2022-0246, dated December 12, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0246).
(1) Where EASA AD 2022-0246 requires compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(2) Where EASA AD 2022-0246 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where the material referenced in paragraphs (2) and (3) of EASA AD 2022-0246 specifies sending removed blade(s) to Airbus Helicopters, this AD does not require that action.
(4) This AD does not adopt the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2022-0246.
Although the material referenced in EASA AD 2022-0246 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.
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.
