[Correction] THALES AVS FRANCE SAS - Global Navigation Satellite System — Operational Limitations
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must update the aircraft navigation database within 30 days of the effective date to exclude specified LPV and RNP-AR procedures. For applicable ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-212A aeroplanes, the Aircraft Flight Manual must be amended within the same timeframe to include the GPS reset procedure, and flight crews must be informed accordingly. Continued use of updated navigation databases without the restricted procedures is mandatory thereafter.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0004 is a correction issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning operational limitations of the Thales AVS France SAS Topstar 200 LPV GPS/SBAS receivers. This directive applies to certain ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-212A aeroplanes, as well as Sikorsky S-76D helicopters equipped with these receivers. It addresses potential erroneous GPS position outputs that could affect navigation safety during LPV and RNP-AR operations.
What changed
This directive introduces operational restrictions by requiring the removal of specific LPV and RNP-AR procedures from the navigation database for affected aircraft. It also mandates an amendment to the Aircraft Flight Manual for certain ATR models to include a GPS reset procedure. The AD is an interim measure pending further regulatory action and corrects the reference number of the Thales Service Information Letter.
Why it matters
The directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk where the GPS receiver may provide undetected erroneous position data, potentially compromising navigation accuracy during precision approaches. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and avoid unsafe flight conditions. Compliance also ensures adherence to European Union aviation regulations and avoids operational restrictions or penalties.
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