8 October 2010
An emergency MPD (Mandatory Permit Directive) No: 2010-008 R1 has been issued by the CAA, titled ‘Rotor blade cracks’ aimed at the MT-03 and MTOSport gyroplanes. The MTD reads, ‘The CAA has adviced that cracks, bends and evidence of fretting has been found in the rotorblades (Aircopter type) of a Rotorcraft UK Ltd MT03 gyroplane. Further investigation by Rotorsport UK Ltd has found cracks, bends and evidence of fretting on non-UK registered MT03 and MTOSport gyrocplanes fitted with both Aircopter and Autogyro type rotor blades. The cause of the cracking, bending of the blades and fretting is still under investigation.
‘Cracks and bends in the rotorblades may result in loss of a rotor blade and subsequent loss of a gyroplane.
‘This MPD has been revised to mandate a 100 hour repeat inspection and include additional inspections of the rotor blade for bending and fretting.’ <a href=”http://www.caa.co.uk/application.aspx?catid=33&pagetype=65&appid=11&mode=detail&id=4268″>Click here for more</a>
