Doors — Sliding Doors — Modification
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected AS 350 and AS 355 helicopters must modify each sliding door and install the required door markings within 825 flight hours or 26 months for AS 350 models, and within 660 flight hours or 26 months for AS 355 models, whichever occurs first after 17 July 2023. They must also ensure no affected parts are installed on any helicopter after modification or from the effective date for helicopters without affected parts.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0131 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Airbus Helicopters AS 350 and AS 355 models equipped with sliding doors. It addresses a safety issue related to the upper rail roller of the sliding doors, which may lead to in-flight detachment of the door. The directive mandates modifications to the sliding door mechanism to enhance safety.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to replace the upper rail roller on sliding doors with a modified version featuring a double locking device. Additionally, it requires the installation of door markings to indicate the correct locking position. The directive prohibits installation of affected parts on helicopters until the modification is completed.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it prevents potential in-flight detachment of sliding doors, which could cause damage to the helicopter or injury to people on the ground. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The modification also helps avoid operational disruptions and regulatory non-compliance.
More for Airbus Helicopters AS 350
All 99- EASA AD 2025-0159R1Placards and Markings – Unlock Sliding Door – InstallationOct 19, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0052R2Instruments – Fuse Cover Attachment of Circuit Breaker Panel – ModificationSep 24, 2026
- EASA AD 2023-0214R1Fuselage – Tail Rotor Drive Shaft / Rear Transmission Bearing Support – Inspections / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2024-0144R1Tail Rotor Drive – Shaft-Line – Check / Measurement / ModificationSep 16, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0146
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