Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-23268 · Main rotor mast/swashplate
Airbus Helicopters
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters, certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of rupture of the scissors link of the rotating swashplate assembly due to a seized ball joint-cups assembly. This AD requires replacing the rotor shaft assembly, modifying the rotating swashplate assembly to replace each of the three ball joint-cups assemblies with one-piece self-lubricated spherical bearings, and modifying the scissors hinges and swashplate trunnions on the main rotor, as applicable, and applying an anti- corrosion agent, if applicable. This AD also prohibits installing a main rotor hub (MRH) assembly or rotor shaft assembly on a helicopter unless certain requirements are met. 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 AD 2025-0116, dated May 19, 2025 (EASA AD 2025-0116).
(1) Where EASA AD 2025-0116 refers to September 5, 2024 (the effective date of EASA AD 2024-0168), this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2025-0116 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2025-0116 refers to “modify that helicopter in accordance with the instructions of the Airbus Helicopter SB 62.00.05”, this AD replaces that text with “modify that helicopter in accordance with the instructions of the Societe Nationale Industrielle Aerospatiale Service Bulletin No. 62.05, Revision 2”.
(4) This AD does not adopt the “Remarks” section of EASA AD 2025-0116.
Although the material referenced in EASA AD 2025-0116 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not require that action.
