Fire Protection – Pyrotechnical Cartridge – Inspection
- Published
- Takes effect
- Deadline
- Replaces
- 2025-0231
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of SA 330 J helicopters must inspect affected pyrotechnical cartridges within three months of the directive's effective date or within six months since the last inspection, whichever occurs first, and repeat inspections every three months thereafter. Any discrepancies found during inspections require immediate replacement of the affected part before further flight. Only serviceable parts may be installed from the effective date onward, and helicopters with newly installed affected parts must follow the inspection schedule accordingly.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2026-0211 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection of pyrotechnical cartridges installed on Airbus Helicopters SA 330 J helicopters. It mandates repetitive inspections of specific pyrotechnical cartridges identified by part numbers 704A38710044 and 704A38710045 to ensure their proper function in engine fire extinguishing systems. The directive applies to all serial numbers of these helicopters and aims to maintain safety by preventing failure of fire extinguisher activation.
What changed
This directive supersedes EASA AD 2025-0231 and expands the affected pyrotechnical cartridge population to include all serial numbers rather than a limited subset. It retains the previous inspection and replacement requirements but extends the scope to ensure all affected parts are inspected regularly. Additionally, it updates the Alert Service Bulletin to Issue 002 for inspection instructions.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a potential unsafe condition where pyrotechnical cartridges may fail to activate the engine fire extinguisher, risking helicopter damage and occupant injury. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain aircraft airworthiness and safety. The expanded scope means more helicopters and parts are subject to inspection, increasing the importance of tracking and managing affected components.
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