EASA AD 2021-0095
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2023-0088
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0095 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting AB139 and AW139 helicopters modified with Aerolite AG's 3-Stretcher Kit Part Number 139084-501. The directive addresses a design deficiency in the primary stretcher unit Part Number 002095-502 installed by the Aerolite Supplemental Type Certificate 10017231. It mandates the installation of a placard indicating a weight limit on the primary stretcher to ensure safe operation.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0095 introduces a requirement to install a placard on the primary stretcher unit limiting occupant weight to 61 kg. This placard must be installed in accordance with Aerolite AG Alert Service Bulletin 21-006. The directive is an interim action to mitigate the risk of stretcher failure during emergency landings.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential injury to helicopter occupants caused by failure of the primary stretcher during emergency landings. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and adherence to European aviation safety regulations. It also informs flight and medical crews of the weight limitation to maintain safety standards.
What To Do
Operators of AB139 and AW139 helicopters modified with the Aerolite 3-Stretcher Kit must install the specified placard on the primary stretcher within 30 flight hours from 14 April 2021. They must also inform all affected flight and medical crew members about the weight limitation and ensure the placard remains visible at all times. Compliance should follow the instructions in Aerolite AG Alert Service Bulletin 21-006.
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