EASA AD 2019-0246
Rotors Flight Control — Collective Controls / Protective Cover — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0246 is an airworthiness directive addressing Airbus Helicopters EC 155 B and EC 155 B1 models. It focuses on the modification of the protective cover for the "SHEAR" control pushbutton on pilot and copilot collective sticks to prevent mechanical deformation and potential unintended shearing of the hoist cable.
What Changed
This new directive introduces a mandatory replacement of the protective cover on the "SHEAR" control pushbutton and requires re-identification of the affected collective sticks with new part numbers. It prohibits the installation of the old design protective cover and affected parts on any helicopter covered by this AD.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk that could lead to unintended hoist cable shearing, potentially causing injury to hoisted persons. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and avoid unsafe conditions related to the collective control system.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1 helicopters must modify the protective cover and re-identify the collective sticks within 3 months if the "SHEAR" control is associated with a hoist installation, or within 12 months otherwise. Installation of the old protective cover or affected parts is prohibited from the effective date of the AD for Group 2 helicopters and after modification for Group 1 helicopters.
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