EASA AD 2026-0011 — Doors — Jettisonable Windows and Seals on the Sliding Doors and Fixed Panels — Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0011 is issued for Airbus Helicopters EC 155 B and EC 155 B1 models, addressing the modification of jettisonable windows and seals on sliding doors and fixed panels. This directive mandates changes to ensure the windows can be jettisoned within required force limits to maintain emergency evacuation capability. It applies to all serial numbers except those with specific Airbus Helicopters modifications embodied in production.
What Changed
EASA AD 2026-0011 supersedes the previous AD 2024-0173 by retaining its requirements but updating the modification instructions for helicopters with tinted windows installed through Airbus Helicopters modification OP52C38. The updated Alert Service Bulletin EC155-56-50-0001 Issue 002 introduces specific procedures for these Group 2 helicopters, refining the replacement and labeling process of the jettisonable windows and seals.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to ensure compliance with safety standards related to emergency evacuation. Failure to comply could result in windows that require excessive force to jettison, potentially hindering evacuation and increasing risk of injury. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory conformity for affected EC 155 helicopters.
What To Do
Operators must replace the jettisonable windows and seals on both left-hand and right-hand sliding doors and fixed panels and install new labels according to the Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC155-56-50-0001. Group 1 helicopters must comply within 600 flight hours or 24 months after 18 September 2024, while Group 2 helicopters must comply within 175 flight hours or 7 months after 29 January 2026, the effective date of this AD.