EASA AD 2020-0094R1
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2021-0188
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0094R1 is an updated safety directive addressing the cargo door locking mechanism on Airbus Helicopters EC 175 B models. It mandates inspections of the right-hand and left-hand cargo door locking mechanisms to prevent in-flight door opening due to locking failures. This directive applies to all EC 175 B helicopters except those with modification 99A06087 incorporated.
What Changed
This revision excludes EC 175 B helicopters that have Airbus Helicopters modification 99A06087, which permanently resolves the unsafe condition. It retains the inspection requirements but reduces the applicability by removing helicopters post-mod 99A06087. The directive also updates compliance times and inspection intervals based on new service bulletin revisions.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential loss of cargo doors in flight, which could cause damage or reduced helicopter control. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and adherence to European aviation safety regulations. It also clarifies which aircraft are exempt due to the permanent modification, aiding in maintenance planning and regulatory compliance.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the cargo door locking mechanisms within 110 flight hours after 12 May 2020 or within 440 flight hours since the last inspection, whichever occurs first, and repeat inspections every 110 flight hours thereafter. Any deficiencies found must be corrected before the next flight following the Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC175-05A029 Revision 1. Helicopters with modification 99A06087 are excluded from these requirements.
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