EASA AD 2019-0198
Flight Controls — Wiring Harness — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0198 is an airworthiness directive addressing wiring harness modifications for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH MBB-BK117 D-2 helicopters. It targets specific wire harness trim connector backshells with part number M85049/90-13W02 manufactured by AMPHENOL or of unknown manufacturer. The directive aims to prevent potential short circuits in yaw and pitch trim actuators that could lead to loss of helicopter control.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive requires replacing affected wire harness trim connector backshells with serviceable parts and prohibits the installation of affected parts on any helicopter. It introduces mandatory modification instructions based on Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117 D-2-88A-002 to address the identified wiring insulation damage.
Why It Matters
The directive is critical for aviation professionals because the affected wiring harness parts can cause short circuits leading to yaw or pitch trim runaway, which poses a serious safety risk including potential loss of helicopter control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely replacement and prevent installation of faulty parts to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators of MBB-BK117 D-2 helicopters with affected parts must replace these parts within 9 months from the effective date of 31 August 2019, following the Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin instructions. Installation of affected parts is prohibited on all helicopters from the effective date. Compliance must be documented and alternative methods of compliance may be approved if substantiated.
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