EASA AD 2020-0185
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2021-0054
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0185 is issued for Leonardo S.p.A. AB139 and AW139 helicopters equipped with specific emergency flotation kits. It addresses the risk of inadvertent activation and deployment of the emergency life raft during flight due to issues with certain life raft reservoirs and actuator cables. The directive mandates inspections and replacements to ensure continued airworthiness and flight safety.
What Changed
This directive introduces mandatory replacement of affected life raft reservoirs and inspections of valve pull rods and actuator cables on AB139 and AW139 helicopters. It prohibits the installation of affected reservoirs and requires corrective actions if discrepancies are found during inspections. The AD also establishes grouping of helicopters based on the presence of affected reservoirs to determine applicable compliance actions.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it prevents unintended life raft deployment that could compromise helicopter control and safety. Operators and maintenance teams must comply to avoid potential in-flight emergencies and regulatory violations. Ensuring compliance protects the aircraft, crew, and passengers from hazards related to emergency flotation system failures.
What To Do
Operators of AB139 and AW139 helicopters must replace affected life raft reservoirs within 25 flight hours after 26 August 2020 or inspect valve pull rods and actuator cables within specified flight hour limits. Any discrepancies found require immediate corrective action before further flight. Installation of affected reservoirs is prohibited from the effective date, and inspections must accompany installation of serviceable reservoirs.
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