Placards and Markings — Stretcher Unit / Placard — Installation
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2021-0095
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected AB139 and AW139 helicopters must install the specified placards on affected primary stretcher units within 30 flight hours after 14 April 2021 for Group 1 helicopters, and within 25 flight hours after 10 May 2023 for Group 2 helicopters. Helicopters modified according to the Aerolite AG modification SB can remove previously installed placards. Flight and medical crew must be informed of the placard installation and weight limitations.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0088 is an airworthiness directive addressing the installation of placards on the 3-stretcher unit assembly installed on Leonardo AB139 and AW139 helicopters modified by Aerolite AG STC 10017231 or EASA.R.S.01403. The directive applies to specific serial numbers of the 3-stretcher unit and affected stretchers, requiring placard installation to indicate occupant weight limits. It aims to ensure continued airworthiness and safety by mitigating risks associated with a design deficiency in the stretcher units.
What changed
EASA AD 2023-0088 supersedes AD 2021-0095 and updates the applicability to include additional serial numbers of affected stretcher units. It retains the placard installation requirements for Group 1 helicopters and introduces new placard installation requirements for Group 2 helicopters. The directive also acknowledges a modification developed by Aerolite AG that improves structural properties and allows removal of the placard after modification.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential stretcher failure during emergency landings, which could cause injury to occupants. Compliance ensures that weight limits are clearly communicated and that only structurally sound stretcher units are used. It affects operational safety and regulatory compliance for helicopters equipped with the specified 3-stretcher units.
More for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters AB139
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- EASA AD 2026-0003Time Limits / Maintenance Checks — Airworthiness Limitations Section — Amendment
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