Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters
Key claim: Operators of specified Leonardo helicopters must inspect a swashplate duplex bearing for incorrect installation, take corrective action if needed, and may not install an affected bearing unless it meets the new requirements.
Abstract
(Rule · Transportation Department, Federal Aviation Administration) The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Leonardo S.p.A. Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109K2, A109E, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters; and certain Model A109S and AW109SP helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of an incorrectly installed swashplate duplex bearing (bearing). This AD requires a one- time inspection of the bearing and depending on the result, corrective action. This AD also prohibits the installation of an affected bearing unless certain requirements are met. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Why this matters
Incorrect installation of a swashplate duplex bearing on a rotorcraft can lead to loss of main rotor control, so the FAA is mandating a one-time inspection and installation restrictions on affected Leonardo helicopters. The directive continues a pattern of recent rotorcraft-focused ADs addressing quality-escape or misinstallation issues in critical dynamic components.