EASA AD 2022-0256
SUPERSEDED BY EASA AD 2023-0110
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2022-0256 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning SAFRAN Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 1C, 1C1, and 1C2 engines installed on various Airbus Helicopters models including SA 365 C3, SA 365 N, SA 365 N1, and AS 365 N2. The directive addresses a manufacturing non-compliance in certain fire detectors that may cause spurious engine fire warnings. It mandates the replacement of affected fire detectors to ensure continued safe operation.
What Changed
This directive introduces a mandatory replacement of specific fire detectors identified by part and serial numbers due to a shift in their temperature detection threshold. It prohibits the installation of affected fire detectors on any engine from the effective date and requires verification that no affected parts are installed before engine installation on helicopters. The directive is a new regulation addressing a safety concern rather than an amendment.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because spurious engine fire warnings can lead to unintended engine shutdowns, potentially compromising helicopter control and safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent in-flight shutdowns and maintain airworthiness. Compliance helps avoid operational disruptions and ensures adherence to European aviation safety regulations.
What To Do
Operators of affected helicopters must replace affected fire detectors on one engine within 30 flight hours or 60 days from 2 January 2023, whichever occurs first. Maintenance teams must not install any affected fire detectors on engines from the effective date and must verify that engines installed on helicopters do not contain affected parts. Compliance with SAFRAN Mandatory Service Bulletin A292 26 0864 Version A is required.
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