Equipment / Furnishings – Life Raft Reservoir and Actuator Cable – Replacement / Inspection
Superseded. Comply with 2021-0054, which replaces this document.
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
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.
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.
More for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters AB139
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- EASA AD 2026-0165Engine Exhaust – Nozzle Exhaust Duct Clamp Assembly – InspectionAug 18, 2026
- EASA AD 2025-0094R1Electrical Power – Overhead Panel Wires Interference – Inspection / ModificationJul 3, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0003Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment
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New ADs and bulletins for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters AB139, S.P.A. Helicopters AW139, AB139 and AW139, summarized like this page, every Monday.