Stabilizer woes prompt AD for Explorers | Aviation International News

Stabilizer woes prompt AD for Explorers

MD Helicopters Explorer Models 900 and 902 are the subject of an FAA Emergency Airworthiness Directive (2008-22-53) following several recent reports of los

By Mark Huber • Contributor

December 31, 2008

MD Helicopters Explorer Models 900 and 902 are the subject of an FAA Emergency Airworthiness Directive (2008-22-53) following several recent reports of loss of yaw control in the no-tail rotor (Notar) helicopters. The latest incidents occurred in October, both apparently caused by the separation of the vertical control rod from the actuator. In forward flight, the vertical stabilizers provide the majority of anti-torque on Notar helicopters; however, directional control still comes for the jet thruster mounted on the end of the boom.

On October 8, N902RN, registered to California Shock Trauma Air Rescue, experienced a violent yaw to the left near Weatherford, Texas. The autopilot was engaged and the helicopter was in cruise flight. The pilot regained directional control and landed at Grand Prairie.

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