Airworthiness Directive 2020-07-22
one-timeAirworthiness Directives; PZL Swidnik S.A. Helicopters
What this AD requires
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for PZL Swidnik S.A. (PZL) Model PZL W-3A helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the main gearbox (MGB) bolts and washers to determine if they are properly locked and, depending on the inspection outcome, removing the engine, removing certain bolts from service, and performing more in-depth inspections; and depending on the outcome of those inspections, replacing the graphite seal assembly or removing it from service. Finally, this AD prohibits installing any affected MGB on a helicopter unless it has met the requirements of this AD. This AD was prompted by reports that the bolts securing the input quill and graphite seal assembly of the MGB were not properly locked. The actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products.
Which aircraft AD 2020-07-22 applies to
Applies to helicopters with a WR-3 main gearbox (MGB) serial number up to 316463007M inclusive, with bolt P/N 89.00.0049 and washer P/N 89.06.0387 installed. The serial range refers to the MGB unit, not the helicopter airframe.
Whether AD 2020-07-22 actually applies to your aircraft (by serial and installed parts) and whether it’s already complied with comes from that aircraft’s records.
How AD compliance is recorded
A valid compliance record (14 CFR 43.9) states:
Tailplate reads a tail number’s logbooks and matches every applicable AD — including this one — to its compliance evidence, with recurring next-due dates computed.
Look up a tail number →Read the full directive (Federal Register)Applicability is derived from the FAA directive corpus and is advisory, not a legal airworthiness determination. Compliance is established only from an aircraft’s actual records.