EASA AD 2023-0175
ATA — Rotorcraft Flight Manual — Altitude Correction — Amendment ATA 21 — Air Conditioning — Cooling System — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0175 is an amendment addressing altitude correction procedures and air conditioning system modifications for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH MBB-BK117 D-2, D-2m, D-3, and D-3m helicopters. The directive mandates changes to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement and replacement of specific condenser outlet grids with covers to correct airspeed and altitude indication errors. It applies to all serial numbers of the affected helicopter models.
What Changed
This directive requires amending the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement 9.2-12 to incorporate a new altitude correction procedure and mandates replacing condenser outlet grids (part numbers D211M1821302 or D211M1822302) with covers (part numbers D211M1821402 or D211M1822402). It also prohibits installation of grids on affected helicopters after modification and allows installation of the air conditioning system only with covers installed.
Why It Matters
The directive addresses reported errors in airspeed and altitude indications caused by the condenser outlet grids affecting the pitot-static system. Correcting this issue is critical to maintaining accurate flight instrument readings, reducing crew workload, and ensuring situational awareness. Compliance is essential for operators and maintenance organizations to uphold airworthiness and regulatory requirements.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1a helicopters must amend the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement within 30 days or 30 flight hours after 2023-10-19 by incorporating the altitude correction procedure. They must replace the grids with covers within 800 flight hours after the effective date. Installation of grids is prohibited after modification, and for Group 1b and 2 helicopters, grids must not be installed from the effective date. Flight crews must be informed of the changes and operate accordingly.
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