EASA AD 2021-0225
Rotorcraft Flight Manual — Supplements / One-Engine Inoperative Performance Limitations — Amendment
Summary
The Rotorcraft Flight Manual — Supplements / One-Engine Inoperative Performance Limitations — Amendment is an EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0225 issued for Airbus Helicopters EC 155 B and EC 155 B1 models. This directive addresses discrepancies in the Rotorcraft Flight Manual related to stay-up flying capabilities under one-engine inoperative conditions, ensuring compliance with applicable airworthiness standards. It mandates updates to the flight manual limitations to include necessary performance and weight restrictions.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0225 requires amending the Rotorcraft Flight Manual and its supplements for EC 155 B and B1 helicopters to include airworthiness limitations for one-engine inoperative performance. The amendment introduces specific weight limits and operational restrictions based on passenger seating and environmental conditions, correcting previously missing information in the limitations section. The updated manuals provide clear guidance on maximum takeoff weights and performance capabilities to ensure safe operation under engine failure scenarios.
Why It Matters
This amendment is critical for operators and maintenance personnel to ensure compliance with JAR 29.1 airworthiness standards and to prevent unsafe flight conditions due to incorrect stay-up flying capability assessments. Accurate performance limitations help pilots maintain control during one-engine inoperative operations, reducing the risk of accidents. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and legal operation of affected EC 155 helicopters within European and participating third-country jurisdictions.
What To Do
Operators of EC 155 B and B1 helicopters must amend the Limitation Section of their Rotorcraft Flight Manuals within 30 days of the directive's effective date by inserting the applicable appendix from the AD or updating to the latest approved manual revision. Flight crews must be informed of these changes and operate the helicopters accordingly. Alternative compliance methods may be approved by EASA if properly substantiated.
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