Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-22811 · Main rotor gearbox
Airbus Helicopters
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model SA330J helicopters, certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Model SA330J helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a main rotor gearbox (MGB) flange assembly coupling (coupling) that was incorrectly assembled. This AD requires a one-time visual inspection to determine correct assembly of each sliding flange installed on each MGB coupling, and if necessary, further corrective actions. This AD also prohibits installing certain MGB couplings or any MGB equipped with certain MGB couplings on any helicopter. These requirements 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 2022-0140, dated July 7, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0140).
(1) Where EASA AD 2022-0140 requires compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD, requires using hours time-in-service.
(2) Where EASA AD 2022-0140 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2022-0140 states, “in accordance with the instructions of the ASB,” for this AD, replace that text with “in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2.b. of the ASB, except you are not required to comply with paragraph 3.B.2.c.”
(4) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2022-0140 states to “replace the affected part with a serviceable part, in accordance with the instructions of the ASB” for this AD, replace that text with “remove the affected part, as defined in EASA AD 2022-0140, from service and replace it with a serviceable part, as defined in EASA AD 2022-0140, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2.d. of the ASB, except you are not required to send an affected part to Airbus Helicopters or comply with paragraphs 2.D or 3.B.3 of the ASB.”
(5) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0140 specifies “install a flange assy coupling (1) correctly assembled,” for this AD, replace that text with “install a correctly assembled MGB coupling.”
(6) This AD does not adopt the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2022-0140.
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2022-0140 specifies to submit certain information and return parts to the manufacturer, this AD does not require those actions.
