Power Plant — Cowlings — Inspection / Repainting
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators must inspect affected engine upper fixed cowlings within the specified flight hours or six months from the effective date, whichever occurs first. If finish paint is found, repainting with primer only or replacement with a serviceable part must be completed within six months after inspection. Only serviceable parts may be installed on helicopters from the effective date of the directive.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0265 is an airworthiness directive addressing Airbus Helicopters models AS 355, SA 365, AS 365, and EC 155. It mandates inspection and possible repainting or replacement of engine upper fixed cowlings with specific part numbers to prevent fire risks caused by finish paint applied over primer layers. The directive applies to all serial numbers of the affected helicopter models.
What changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2021-0265 introduces a new requirement for a one-time inspection of engine upper fixed cowlings to detect finish paint over primer layers. If finish paint is found, the affected parts must be repainted with primer only or replaced with serviceable parts. This directive is a new regulation addressing a previously unidentified fire risk.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential fire hazard in the engine compartment caused by improper paint layers on fixed cowlings. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety, preventing possible damage to helicopters and injury to occupants. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must integrate these inspections and corrective actions into their maintenance programs.
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