Electrical Power — Battery — Modification

Published: Nov 27, 2023
Effective: Dec 11, 2023
Deadline: Dec 11, 2024

AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.

What to do

Operators of Leonardo A119 and AW119MKII helicopters must install the battery discharge detector within 12 months of 11 December 2023 for Group 1 helicopters and amend the Rotorcraft Flight Manual accordingly before the next flight after modification or within 12 months for Group 2 helicopters. Flight crews must be informed of the updated procedures and operate the helicopter in accordance with the revised manual.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2023-0210 is an official regulatory document addressing electrical power system safety on Leonardo S.p.A. A119 and AW119MKII helicopters. It mandates the installation of a battery discharge detection system and updates to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual to enhance detection of battery discharge conditions and alert flight crews accordingly.

What changed

This new Airworthiness Directive introduces a requirement to retrofit affected helicopters with a battery discharge detector to detect electrical failures caused by starter-generator drive shaft rupture. It also requires amending the Rotorcraft Flight Manual with updated emergency procedures to reflect this modification.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a previously undetected electrical failure that could lead to complete loss of electrical power and potential loss of helicopter control. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and flight safety, preventing in-flight electrical failures.

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