EASA AD 2019-0228
Equipment / Furnishings — Electric Hoist Installation — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0228 addresses the electric hoist installation modification on Airbus Helicopters AS 350 and AS 355 models. It targets electric hoists manufactured by BREEZE, TRW, LUCAS, or AIR EQUIPEMENT installed with specific hoist boxes, ensuring proper electrical modifications are applied to guarantee emergency release functionality. The directive mandates verification and correction of the hoist electrical system to prevent failure in emergency cable release.
What Changed
This directive supersedes the previous DGAC France AD 2002-585 and introduces updated instructions via Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins Revision 2, correcting earlier errors and clarifying mandatory modification embodiment. It requires operators to verify that the electric hoist electrical provisions have been correctly modified according to the latest ASB revisions to ensure reliable emergency jettison operation.
Why It Matters
For aviation professionals, this AD is critical because failure of the emergency release control system could lead to loss of helicopter control during emergencies. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The directive prevents dormant electrical failures that could delay cable release, thereby enhancing operational safety and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must inspect and modify affected electric hoists within 100 flight hours or 2 months from the effective date, following the instructions in the applicable Airbus Helicopters ASBs Revision 2. They must also submit a feedback form to Airbus Helicopters within 30 days after modification. Installation of affected parts is permitted only if the modification is completed before the next flight.
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