EASA AD 2024-0063
Doors — Passenger Jettisonable Window Mechanism — Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0063 is an airworthiness directive issued for Airbus Helicopters H160 B models concerning the replacement of passenger jettisonable window mechanisms. The directive addresses potential safety issues with certain passenger windows installed on these helicopters that may affect the window jettisoning system. It applies to all serial numbers of the H160 B helicopter.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive requires the replacement of affected passenger windows with serviceable ones due to the discovery of self-locking nuts that can be loosened by hand, potentially compromising the window jettisoning system. It prohibits the installation of affected passenger windows or doors on any H160 B helicopter from the effective date onward. The directive introduces specific compliance groups based on helicopter serial numbers and window installation status.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that could impair passenger escape in emergency ditching or water impact scenarios. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and passenger safety. Failure to comply could result in operating aircraft with compromised emergency egress capabilities, which is a significant safety hazard and regulatory violation.
What To Do
Operators of Group 1 H160 B helicopters must replace each affected passenger window with a serviceable window within 165 flight hours after 21 March 2024, following the instructions in the Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin H160-52-20-0001. From the effective date, no affected passenger windows or doors may be installed on any H160 B helicopter. Compliance with these actions is mandatory to continue operation.
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