EASA AD 2018-0273
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2022-0083
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0273 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency concerning SAFRAN Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2D, 2E, and 2N models. It applies to these engines installed on Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B3 (H125), EC 130 T2 (H130), and MBB-BK117 D-2 (EC 145 T2 or H145) helicopters. The directive mandates compliance with updated airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks as specified in the latest SAFRAN ARRIEL 2 Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals.
What Changed
This directive introduces new and more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks for the ARRIEL 2 engine series, as published in the revised SAFRAN Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals dated 30 June 2018. It requires operators to replace life-limited parts before exceeding their limits and to perform maintenance tasks within specified intervals. Additionally, it mandates updating the approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme to incorporate these new requirements.
Why It Matters
Compliance with EASA Airworthiness Directive 2018-0273 is critical to ensure the continued airworthiness and safety of helicopters powered by ARRIEL 2 engines. Failure to adhere to the updated maintenance and life limitation requirements could lead to unsafe conditions. For operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams, this directive ensures that maintenance practices meet the latest safety standards mandated by EASA.
What To Do
Operators and maintenance organizations must implement the updated maintenance tasks and life limits as specified in the applicable SAFRAN ARRIEL 2 Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals starting from 27 December 2018. They must revise their approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme within 12 months of the effective date to incorporate these new requirements. Any discrepancies found during maintenance must be corrected according to SAFRAN-approved instructions before further flight.
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