EASA AD 2020-0281
Equipment / Furnishings — Hoist Control Power Supply — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2020-0281 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters AS 332 L2 and EC 225 LP models. The directive addresses a design deficiency related to the hoist control power supply wiring on specific serial-numbered helicopters. It mandates a modification to ensure electrical protection and prevent potential safety hazards.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a required modification to the hoist control power supply wiring to correct incorrect routing and ensure the wiring is protected by the appropriate circuit breaker. The modification is detailed in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins AS332-25.02.30 Revision 1 and EC225-25A065 Revision 1. It does not supersede any previous directives but provides updated instructions for compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the identified wiring issue could cause a short circuit leading to unintended hoist shear commands and loss of hoisted loads. Such failures pose serious risks of injury or fatality to external cargo personnel and people on the ground. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and operational safety of the affected helicopters.
What To Do
Operators of affected AS 332 L2 and EC 225 LP helicopters must modify the hoist control power supply within 30 days of the directive's effective date, following the instructions in the applicable Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletins. Helicopters previously modified under the original Eurocopter Service Bulletins are considered compliant. Requests for alternative compliance methods can be submitted to EASA if properly justified.
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