Cracks Found On Tail Roter Half Hubs

As a precautionary measure, the Air Force has limited its fleet of 15 CH-149 Cormorant helicopters to search and rescue (SAR) operations and test flights only until more details are known about cracks that were found on the tail rotor half hubs of Cormorant CH-149908. The decision was made Saturday night.

"The safety of the men and women who operate the Cormorant is a top priority," said Major-General Charles Bouchard, Commander 1 Canadian Air Division. "After assessing the preliminary data of this particular case, it was decided that SAR operations and the necessary test flights required to do that job can continue for the fleet without putting our crews at an unacceptable level of risk."

The cracks on the tail rotor half hub were larger than previously seen in Canada. While the depth of the cracks are not known at this time, the largest, which is hairline in nature, can be seen spanning out along a portion of the half hub.

The cause of the cracks is under investigation and inspections of that area of the aircraft have been increased. The situation will be re-evaluated as more details from the investigation are made available. Training, general purpose and air displays will not be conducted until further notice.

FMI: www.airforce.forces.gc.ca