Equipment / Furnishings — Outboard Load System — Inspection / Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2017-0199
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected EC135 and EC635 helicopters must perform repetitive inspections of the affected hook assemblies every six months starting within three months after 25 October 2017, replace any defective parts found, and complete the required hoist modification within eight months after 31 January 2021. Alternatively, replacing the affected hoist with a serviceable hoist is acceptable to comply with the modification requirement.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0011 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection and modification of the outboard load system on Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH EC135 and EC635 helicopter models. It specifically targets Goodrich hoists with certain part numbers and their hook assemblies to prevent potential detachment of external loads or persons during hoist operations.
What changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2017-0199 and retains its inspection requirements while introducing a mandatory modification of the affected hoists or replacement with serviceable hoists. The modification involves installing an updated hook assembly that terminates the need for repetitive inspections and retaining ring replacements.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk where the hoist hook could separate from the cable, potentially causing injury to personnel or bystanders. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and operational safety of the affected helicopter models, reducing the risk of accidents related to hoist operations.
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