EASA AD 2022-0018-E
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2022-0029-E
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0018-E is an emergency directive addressing safety concerns with MARS A.S. ATL-88/90-1B emergency parachutes, also known commercially as ATL-15 SL. It applies to all serial numbers manufactured between 2016 and 2020 inclusive, as well as specific serial numbers with a microline cord static line extension. The directive mandates removal from service due to a risk of malfunction caused by incorrect ripcord length and static line extension dimensions.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0018-E supersedes the previous Emergency AD 2022-0017-E by correcting the applicability criteria for affected parachutes. It retains the removal from service requirement but updates the scope of affected serial numbers. This AD is an interim measure pending a manufacturer modification to restore airworthiness.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a potential failure in emergency parachutes that could compromise pilot safety during egress. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure affected parachutes are not used, preventing unsafe equipment from being deployed. Compliance with this AD is mandatory under EU regulations, impacting operational readiness and regulatory adherence.
What To Do
From 1 February 2022, affected emergency parachutes must be removed from service and stored unrigged in containers clearly marked as 'Parachute not airworthy. Do not use until further notice.' Operators should monitor for further ADs that may introduce modifications or alternative compliance methods. Any requests for alternative compliance must be substantiated and approved by EASA.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.