Electrical Power — Electrical Cables — Inspection / Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2018-0120-E
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 placards before the next flight after 31 May 2018, modify the affected baggage fairing within 15 flight hours, and conduct repetitive inspections of electrical cables every 25 flight hours starting within 5 flight hours of the directive's effective date. Any discrepancies found must be corrected before further flight, and the terminating modification must be completed within 200 flight hours to end repetitive inspections.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0149-E is an emergency directive addressing electrical cable inspection and modification requirements for Leonardo S.p.A. A109S and AW109SP helicopters. It targets specific serial numbers of these helicopter models due to fire incidents caused by chafing electrical wiring in the baggage compartment. The directive mandates inspections, modifications, and operational limitations to prevent fire hazards.
What changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2018-0120-E and expands applicability by including additional serial numbers of A109S helicopters. It retains previous requirements such as Rotorcraft Flight Manual amendments and placard installation, while introducing repetitive inspections of electrical cable assemblies and requiring a terminating modification within 200 flight hours. The new modification provides a permanent solution to prevent electrical cable damage and fire risk.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a serious safety risk of fire in the baggage compartment that could lead to loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid operational restrictions. The directive also provides clear instructions for inspections and corrective actions, supporting effective risk mitigation and regulatory adherence.
More for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters A109
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- 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
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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.