EASA AD 2026-0008 — Ice and Rain Protection — Windows, Windshields and Doors / Left-Hand Windshield Heating Solid State Relay — Modification / Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0008 is an airworthiness directive issued by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency affecting Pilatus PC-24 aeroplanes with specific serial numbers and service bulletin configurations. It addresses an issue with the left-hand windshield heating solid state relay (SSR) that may fail during emergency conditions. The directive mandates modification and replacement of the affected SSR to ensure proper ice and rain protection on windows, windshields, and doors.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to replace the affected solid state relay part number 974.20.01.234 with a serviceable part number 974.20.01.235 on certain PC-24 aeroplanes. It also prohibits installation of the affected SSR on any aircraft after the effective date. The directive is based on Pilatus Service Bulletin 30-007 and applies to aircraft with specific serial numbers and previous service bulletin embodiments.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because the affected SSR can allow current to flow in reverse when off, potentially causing failure of the emergency windshield heating function during dual generator failure scenarios. Such failure could lead to loss of outside visibility in icing conditions, posing a safety risk. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety.
What To Do
Operators of affected PC-24 aeroplanes must modify the aircraft and replace the affected SSR within 16 months of the directive's effective date, 29 January 2026. Maintenance personnel must not install the affected SSR part number 974.20.01.234 on any aircraft after the effective date or after replacement on Group 1 aircraft. Compliance must follow the instructions in Pilatus Service Bulletin 30-007.