EASA AD 2025-0173: Aircraft Flight Manual — Normal Procedures — Amendment

What to do

Operators of Group 1, 2, and 3 ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes must implement the smoke detector check procedures within six months from 19 August 2025 and inform all flight crews accordingly. Incorporating the latest Aircraft Flight Manual revision dated 30 November 2024 is an acceptable compliance method. For Group 4 aeroplanes, modifications per specified ATR service bulletins require implementation of these procedures before the next flight after modification.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2025-0173 is an amendment addressing the Aircraft Flight Manual normal procedures for ATR 42-400, ATR 42-500, ATR 72-212, and ATR 72-212A aeroplanes. The directive mandates updates to smoke detector check procedures in the flight manuals to enhance safety during cargo operations. It applies to all manufacturer serial numbers of the specified ATR models.

What changed

This amendment introduces updated procedures for pre-flight smoke detector checks in the Aircraft Flight Manual for Groups 1, 2, and 3 ATR 42 and ATR 72 aeroplanes. It also allows modifications for Group 4 aeroplanes with specific service bulletins, requiring implementation of the updated procedures before the next flight. The changes aim to ensure functional smoke detection in cargo compartments, particularly for class E configurations.

Why it matters

The update is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition where a fire in the cargo compartment could go undetected due to the absence of a pre-flight smoke detector check. Operators, maintenance, and compliance teams must ensure adherence to the new procedures to prevent uncontrolled fires and maintain regulatory compliance. This enhances overall flight safety and aligns with continuing airworthiness requirements.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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