Fire Protection — Rear Engine Cowling Sight Glasses — Replacement
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AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of EC 175 B helicopters without modification 99A06348 must replace the affected rear engine cowling sight glasses within 1,800 flight hours or 24 months from 13 April 2023, whichever occurs first. After replacement, installation of the original non-fire-proof parts is prohibited. Compliance must follow the instructions in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC175-71-13-0001.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0069 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency concerning Airbus Helicopters EC 175 B models. It addresses the replacement of rear engine cowling sight glasses that are not fire-proof, which affects all EC 175 B helicopters except those with modification 99A06348 installed. The directive mandates replacing these sight glasses with redesigned fire-proof parts to enhance fire protection.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to replace the existing rear engine cowling sight glasses and associated fasteners and seals with improved fire-proof versions as specified in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC175-71-13-0001. It prohibits the installation of the affected non-fire-proof parts after replacement. This is a new regulation aimed at correcting a previously unaddressed unsafe condition.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the current sight glasses can fail during an engine fire, allowing excessive airflow that reduces the effectiveness of fire extinguishing systems. Failure to comply could lead to an uncontained engine fire and potential loss of the helicopter. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure timely replacement to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety.
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