EASA AD 2024-0094
ULTRAMAGIC, S.A.: Restraint Systems / Occupant Restraint Harnesses — Inspection
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0094 addresses inspection requirements for Ultramagic, S.A. occupant restraint harnesses, specifically part number CI-C-1302, commonly installed on Ultramagic hot air balloons. The directive mandates inspection and potential replacement of leg lanyard tapes with incorrectly positioned adjustment buckles that compromise safety. This AD applies to all hot air balloons equipped with these harnesses, regardless of installation method.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2024-0094 introduces a new mandatory inspection and corrective action requirement for Ultramagic occupant restraint harnesses P/N CI-C-1302. It identifies a production defect involving the leg lanyard adjustment buckle being sewn upside down, which reduces friction and may cause unexpected extension of the restraint. The AD prohibits installation of affected parts and requires replacement of any found during inspection.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent potential accidents involving occupant restraint failure on hot air balloons. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to avoid the risk of occupants falling from balloons due to faulty harnesses. Compliance teams need to track and enforce these inspections and part replacements to maintain airworthiness and regulatory conformity.
What To Do
Operators must inspect all Ultramagic occupant restraint harnesses P/N CI-C-1302 installed on hot air balloons within 30 days of 3 May 2024, following Ultramagic Alert Service Bulletin 01/24 instructions. If an affected leg lanyard tape is found, it must be replaced with a serviceable part before the next flight. Installation of affected parts is prohibited from the effective date onward.
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