EASA AD 2026-0153
Time Limits / Maintenance Checks – Airworthiness Limitations Section – Amendment
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0153 is an amendment addressing time limits and maintenance checks in the Airworthiness Limitations Section for SAFRAN HELICOPTER ENGINES ARRIEL 2 series engines. This directive applies to multiple ARRIEL 2 engine models installed on various helicopters including Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B3 (H125), EC 130 T2 (H130), MBB-BK117 D-2 (EC 145 T2 or H145), Sikorsky S-76C, Korea Aerospace Industries LAH and LCH, and AVIC AC312E helicopters. It mandates compliance with updated maintenance manuals and overhaul manuals to ensure continued airworthiness.
What Changed
This AD supersedes previous directives 2017-0121 and 2025-0079, expands the applicability to include additional ARRIEL 2 engine models, and requires operators to follow updated Airworthiness Limitations Sections in the latest SAFRAN maintenance and overhaul manuals. The amendment introduces no new or more restrictive tasks but updates references to dedicated overhaul manuals for each engine model. It also clarifies compliance methods and recording procedures for maintenance tasks and life limits.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it ensures the continued airworthiness and safety of helicopters powered by ARRIEL 2 engines by enforcing mandatory maintenance tasks and life limits. Operators and maintenance organizations must update their maintenance programs to reflect the latest approved manuals, preventing unsafe conditions caused by overlooked or outdated maintenance requirements. Compliance with this AD supports regulatory adherence and operational safety.
What To Do
Affected operators must replace components before exceeding life limits and perform all maintenance tasks within specified intervals as per the updated Airworthiness Limitations Section. They must revise their approved Aircraft Maintenance Programmes within 12 months of the effective date to incorporate these requirements. In case of discrepancies found during maintenance, corrective actions must be taken within specified times or before the next flight, and any unclear issues should be referred to SAFRAN for approved instructions.
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