EASA AD 2018-0124
Aircraft Flight Manual - Amendment
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0124 is an amendment addressing safety concerns for Leonardo S.p.A. A119 and AW119MKII helicopters equipped with certain Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B engine Fuel Control Units (FCU). The directive mandates updates to the Aircraft Flight Manual and installation of cockpit placards to prohibit intentional autorotation for helicopters with affected FCUs.
What Changed
This directive requires operators of affected helicopters to amend the Rotorcraft Flight Manual and install a placard restricting intentional autorotation due to potential FCU calibration issues. It also prohibits installation of affected FCUs and allows removal of these restrictions once the FCU is replaced with a compliant unit.
Why It Matters
The directive addresses a critical safety risk where improperly calibrated FCUs can cause engine power fluctuations and failures during autorotation, potentially leading to loss of helicopter control. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and operational safety for affected helicopter fleets.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1 helicopters with affected FCUs must amend the flight manual and install cockpit placards before the next autorotation flight or within 30 days of the directive's effective date. Replacement of affected FCUs removes these restrictions, and installation of affected FCUs is prohibited on all helicopters from the effective date.
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