Windows — Emergency Exit Windows — Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of AW169 and AW189 helicopters must install the specified Pull Tab protection retrofit on all affected emergency exit handles within 750 flight hours or 24 months from the effective date of 19 September 2018, whichever occurs first. Compliance must follow the instructions provided in the applicable Leonardo Service Bulletins.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0197 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning Leonardo S.p.A. AW169 and AW189 helicopters. It addresses a potential unsafe condition related to emergency exit windows, specifically the internal and external emergency exit handles, which may cause damage to the rubber window seal and hinder emergency evacuation.
What changed
This directive introduces a mandatory modification requiring the installation of a Pull Tab protection retrofit on affected emergency exit handles to prevent damage to the rubber seal wedge. The modification involves installing a nomex sock around the rubber seal wedge as detailed in Leonardo Service Bulletins SB 169-094 and SB 189-170.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it ensures the reliability and safety of emergency exit windows on AW169 and AW189 helicopters. Failure to comply could result in excessive force needed to release emergency exits, potentially delaying evacuation during emergencies. Operators and maintenance teams must address this to maintain airworthiness and comply with regulatory requirements.
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