EASA AD 2021-0185R2
UMLAUT ENGINEERING GmbH — Hand-operated Fire Extinguishers — Inspection / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0185R2 is an updated regulation addressing the inspection and replacement of UMLAUT ENGINEERING GmbH HAFEX (Halon-free) hand-held fire extinguishers with Part Numbers P3APP003010A, P3APP003010B, and P3APP003010C. These fire extinguishers may be installed on any aircraft either during production or as a modification. The directive mandates repetitive inspections to ensure the extinguishers remain functional and safe under various environmental conditions.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0185R2 revises the previous AD 2021-0185R1 by extending the interval for repetitive inspections of the affected fire extinguishers from 6 months to 12 months. It also clarifies inspection requirements for aircraft that have been inactive for 30 days or more and confirms that installation of serviceable affected extinguishers is allowed with continued inspection compliance.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent failure of hand-operated fire extinguishers due to spindle dislodgement caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Ensuring the extinguishers are inspected and replaced if defective helps maintain fire safety on board, protecting aircraft integrity and occupant safety. Compliance with this AD is essential for operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams to meet regulatory airworthiness requirements.
What To Do
Operators must inspect each affected HAFEX fire extinguisher within 30 days of the AD's effective date or within 12 months of the last inspection, then continue inspections at intervals not exceeding 12 months. If the safety pin does not contact the valve head during inspection, the extinguisher must be removed from service and replaced before the next flight. Additionally, aircraft inactive for 30 days or more require inspection of installed extinguishers before returning to service.
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