The EAD applies to Airbus AH EC 175 B helicopters, all manufacturer serial numbers.
This AD was prompted by an occurrence of ‘loose rivets’ found on an EC 175 helicopter, on the left and right pylon reinforcement fitting, as well as a crack in one of the reinforcement fittings, that had initiated from one of the holes containing a loose rivet.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in cracking of one or both pylon reinforcement fittings, possibly resulting in loss of support by the reinforcing rods of the pylon reinforcement fittings of the aerodynamic loads applied to the horizontal stabiliser during flight, which could lead to rupture of the horizontal stabiliser, possibly resulting in loss of control of the helicopter.
To address this potential unsafe condition, AH issued ASB EC175-05-00-0006, providing instructions for inspection and repair of the pylon reinforcement fittings for the horizontal stabiliser.
This AD mandates inspections every 155 flight hours and repair before further flight if loose rivets are found as prescribed by Airbus Helicopters.
This AD is considered to be an interim action and further AD action may follow.
