Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-23082 · Main rotor mast/swashplate
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB-BK 117 D-3 helicopters, certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB-BK 117 D-3 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of over-torqued swashplate bolts on helicopters in service and in production. This AD requires removal of certain swashplate bolts from service and replacement with new (never previously installed on a helicopter) bolts, a one-time inspection for damage on the threads of the bearing ring and control ring of the swashplate and, depending on the results of the inspection, corrective actions. This AD also prohibits the installation of certain swashplates on any helicopter unless certain requirements are met. 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, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2025-0027, dated February 5, 2025 (EASA AD 2025-0027).
(1) Where EASA AD 2025-0027 requires compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service (TIS).
(2) Where EASA AD 2025-0027 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraphs (2) and (3) of EASA AD 2025-0027 specify “discrepancy”, this AD requires replacing this text with “damage to the threads”.
(4) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2025-0027 specifies “replace that control ring or bearing ring, respectively”, this AD requires replacing that text with “remove from service and replace that control ring or bearing ring, respectively”.
(5) This AD does not adopt the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2025-0027.
Although the material referenced in EASA AD 2025-0027 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not require that action.
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.
