EASA AD 2022-0010
Navigation - Glide Slope Antenna — Inspection / Cleaning / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0010 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning Leonardo S.p.A AW189 helicopters. It addresses inspection, cleaning, and replacement requirements for the glide slope antenna and its coaxial connectors, specifically part numbers 6208-88-62 and PE4958. The directive aims to ensure safe automated glide slope approaches by preventing erratic signals caused by sealant contamination on affected antenna parts.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a one-time inspection requirement for the glide slope antenna and coaxial connectors on all AW189 helicopters. It mandates cleaning and acceptance test procedures if sealant is found, and replacement of parts if discrepancies are detected. Additionally, it sets conditions for the installation of serviceable glide slope antenna parts going forward.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition that could impair automated glide slope approaches, impacting flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to avoid erratic glide slope signals that could compromise helicopter approach capabilities. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence for AW189 helicopter fleets.
What To Do
Operators of AW189 helicopters must inspect the affected glide slope antenna parts within 200 flight hours or 6 months from 3 February 2022, whichever occurs first. If sealant is found, parts must be cleaned and pass an acceptance test before further flight. Any discrepancies require part replacement before flight. Serviceable parts must be installed from the effective date onward, and parts with residual sealant must be replaced within 12 months after passing the acceptance test.
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