Fuselage – Baggage Fairings – Modification
Superseded. Comply with 2018-0149-E, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must amend the Rotorcraft Flight Manual and install a placard prohibiting baggage loads before the next flight after 2018-05-31. The affected baggage fairing assembly must be modified within 15 flight hours after 2018-05-31. Once the modification is completed, the temporary restrictions can be removed. Compliance with these actions is mandatory to continue operating the affected helicopters.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0120-E is an emergency directive affecting Leonardo S.p.A. A109S and AW109SP helicopters. It addresses a safety issue related to wire chafing that could cause fire and smoke in the baggage compartment, posing a risk of loss of control. The directive mandates modifications to the baggage fairing assembly and temporary operational restrictions until the modification is completed.
What changed
This directive introduces mandatory modifications to the affected baggage fairing assembly (Part Number 109-0344-31-101) on specified A109S and AW109SP helicopters. It also requires a temporary amendment to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual and installation of a placard prohibiting loads in the baggage compartment until the modification is done. These actions are interim measures pending further AD action.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a fire hazard that could compromise helicopter safety and control. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to prevent potential in-flight fires originating from wire chafing in the baggage compartment. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and adherence to regulatory safety standards.
More for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters A109
All 51- EASA AD 2026-0168Tail Rotor Drive – Tail Gear Box and Chip Detector – InspectionAug 24, 2026
- EASA AD 2024-0004R1Fuselage – Centre Fuselage Frame Assembly – Inspection / Repair / ModificationAug 10, 2026
- EASA PAD 26-088Tail Rotor Drive – Tail Gear Box and Chip Detector – InspectionJul 23, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0115Stabilizers – Torque Tube Assembly – InspectionJun 15, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0045Rotors Flight Control — Collective Stick Torque Tube Assembly — Inspection / Replacement
Get the next one by email
New ADs and bulletins for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters A109, S.P.A. Helicopters A119, A109S and AW109SP, summarized like this page, every Monday.