EASA AD 2021-0148
Equipment & Furnishings — Emergency Flotation System — Rotorcraft Flight Manual (Supplement)
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0148 is an update addressing the Emergency Flotation System (EFS) information in the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (Supplement) for Sikorsky S-76 and S-92A helicopters, Bell Helicopter Textron 212, 214B, 214ST, 412 series, and Bell Helicopter Textron Canada 222, 230, and 430 helicopters equipped with EFS. It mandates amendments to the Limitations Section of the flight manuals to include demonstrated sea state conditions for ditching performance of the EFS. This directive applies to helicopters with EFS installed as optional kits or via Supplemental Type Certificates.
What Changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2014-0244 and corrects previous typographical errors related to the Sikorsky S-92A helicopter model. It updates the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement to clarify and harmonize the sea state limitations information for the Emergency Flotation Systems, ensuring consistent and accurate operational guidance. It also resolves conflicting information previously included in the flight manual appendices.
Why It Matters
This update is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure that the helicopter's ditching capabilities are clearly understood and properly documented, enhancing safety during over-water operations. Accurate sea state limitations help prevent unsafe flight dispatches in sea conditions beyond the EFS's certified performance. Compliance ensures adherence to European Union aviation safety regulations and supports continued airworthiness of affected rotorcraft.
What To Do
Operators must amend the Limitations Section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual or its Supplement within specified compliance times, generally within three months after 1 September 2014 for most helicopters, and within 20 to 30 days for Sikorsky S-92A helicopters depending on float configuration. The amendment involves inserting specified appendices or approved text detailing the demonstrated sea state conditions. Operators with helicopters equipped via Supplemental Type Certificates must review and amend their manuals if sea state information is missing.
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