EASA AD 2022-0206
Instruments — New Avionics Suite — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0206 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-212A aeroplanes equipped with the New Avionics Suite (NAS) installed under ATR modification 05948 (the '-600 version'). This directive addresses the replacement of certain NAS standards to ensure safe operation in severe icing conditions. It applies specifically to aircraft with affected NAS versions that do not meet the updated safety requirements.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0206 introduces a mandatory replacement of affected NAS versions with serviceable NAS standards 2.2 or 3.1 or later approved versions. It prohibits the installation or reinstallation of the affected NAS on any aircraft. This is a new regulation requiring operators to upgrade avionics to mitigate risks associated with lateral flight guidance during severe icing.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk where the flight director or autopilot may not properly limit high bank turns in severe icing, potentially leading to loss of control. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure affected aircraft are upgraded to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could result in unsafe flight conditions and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators of ATR 42-500 and ATR 72-212A aircraft with affected NAS must replace the avionics suite with a serviceable NAS within 18 months from 21 October 2022. Installation of affected NAS is prohibited after this replacement or from the effective date for aircraft already equipped with serviceable NAS. Compliance can be demonstrated by following the instructions in the applicable ATR Service Bulletins referenced in the directive.
AI-generated summary from official EASA source document. Always verify against the original.