EASA AD 2022-0072
Doors — VIP Flap Doors / Emergency Jettisoning System — Placard Installation
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0072 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters EC 225 LP models with specific serial numbers. The directive mandates the installation of a placard with emergency jettisoning instructions on the right-hand side VIP flap door to ensure proper operation during ditching scenarios. This AD addresses safety concerns related to evacuation in emergency situations.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0072 introduces a new requirement to install a placard on the right-hand side VIP flap door of certain EC 225 LP helicopters. The placard provides clear instructions for jettisoning the door in emergencies, correcting previously inadequate information. This is a new regulation rather than an amendment and does not supersede any prior directives.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it enhances occupant safety by ensuring that emergency evacuation procedures are clearly communicated on the aircraft. Operators and maintenance teams must comply to avoid potential obstruction of evacuation during ditching, which could lead to injury. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory conformity under EASA rules.
What To Do
Operators of affected EC 225 LP helicopters must install the specified placard on the right-hand side VIP flap door within 50 flight hours or 30 days from the effective date of 10 May 2022, whichever occurs first. The installation must follow the instructions in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC225-52A023. Alternative methods of compliance may be approved by EASA if properly substantiated.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.