Whats happening with the AAIB investigation into this?
In late November they suggested that:-
"On-going work, some of which is anticipated to extend into 2013, includes:
1 Dimensional analysis, fractography and metallographic examination of the bevel gear vertical shaft and MGB fitted to G-CHCN.
2 Tests on parent and welded material samples (coupons) to confirm the material properties of the 32CDV13 steel alloy, used by the manufacturer in the design of the component, and the material’s susceptibility to cracking from small features.
3 A flight load and vibration analysis programme to confirm the predicted loads in the weld region, and to establish if there is an area in the flight envelope where the bevel gear vertical shaft might operate at one of its natural frequencies.
4 Examination of a sample of shafts removed from EC225 LP helicopters and an analysis of oil removed from other EC225 LP helicopters operating out of Aberdeen."
Is the AAIB taking the lead on this or are they taking EC data?? As one can only imagine that EC covered all these items during their flight test program prior to the type being approved?
So the question is will this be the tail wagging the dog if the AAIB report once EC have decided what their issues are?
Surely it would be good for the industry and customer if it were the AAIB that were leading this test and giving direction to EC, which one can only assume they are not given the comments from EC on their expectations.