Rotorcraft
Eurocopter EC225 interim fix approved, redesigned shaft on the way
Eurocopter EC225 operators in the North Sea will be provided with modification kits that allow return to flight.
Eurocopter EC225 operators in the North Sea will be provided with modification kits that allow return to flight.

The EASA approved the interim solution–a combination of vibration monitoring, inspections and part modification–that Eurocopter devised for the EC225 to address main gearbox (MGB) lubrication issues after the type experienced two controlled ditchings last year. The manufacturer’s fix is intended to reduce the likelihood of an undetected crack, leading to in-flight rupture and ditching, to one per billion flight hours. At issue is the bevel gear vertical shaft, a part that is critical to main gearbox lubrication. The first of the 80 helicopters essentially grounded by a series of ADs was expected to return to service last month.

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