EASA AD 2026-0044: SAFRAN ELECTRONICS & DEFENSE BEACONS: Emergency Locator Transmitter — Modification

What to do

Operators with Group 1 ELTs, those installed with affected parts, must modify the ELT installation within 12 months of 18 March 2026 by following Safran Electronics & Defense Beacons Service Bulletin S1840501-25-01. Additionally, no affected programming dongle connectors may be installed on any ELT from the effective date of the AD. Temporary installations during maintenance are exempt from this restriction.

Summary

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0044 addresses the modification of Safran Electronics & Defense Kannad 406 AF-Compact Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs) with Part Numbers S1840501-01 or S1840501-04. This directive applies to all serial numbers of these ELTs, which may be installed on any aircraft either during production or through in-service modifications. The AD mandates changes to the ELT installation to ensure proper emergency signal transmission.

What changed

EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0044 introduces a requirement to modify the installation configuration of the affected Kannad 406 AF-Compact ELTs by replacing or removing certain programming dongle connectors identified as affected parts. It also prohibits the installation of these affected parts on any ELT from the effective date of the AD, ensuring the use of serviceable parts only.

Why it matters

This directive is critical because certain ELT configurations have been found to transmit random bursts during valid distress signals, potentially delaying rescue operations. Compliance ensures that emergency locator transmitters function correctly during emergencies, which is vital for timely search and rescue responses and crew and passenger safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must address this to maintain regulatory compliance and operational safety.