Landing Gear – Emergency Flotation System Adhesive Label – Removal
Proposal for consultation. Not binding until EASA issues the final AD; the requirements can still change.
- Published
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of MBB-BK117 D-2 and D-3 helicopters with serial numbers 20001 to 20360 must inspect for the affected EFS adhesive label and remove it within 18 months after the directive's effective date, following Airbus Helicopters' service bulletin instructions. Additionally, installation of the affected label is prohibited from the effective date forward. Stakeholders should monitor EASA communications for the final effective date and comply accordingly.
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive Proposal PAD No. 26-111 addresses the removal of a non-certified Emergency Flotation System (EFS) adhesive label, Part Number 214794-0, installed on Airbus Helicopters MBB-BK117 D-2 and D-3 models with serial numbers 20001 to 20360. The directive targets the incorrect EFS gas cylinder pressure limits displayed on the label, which could affect float inflation during ditching. This proposal applies to helicopters manufactured by Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH and related entities.
What changed
This new proposed airworthiness directive introduces a mandatory removal of the affected EFS adhesive label from Group 1 helicopters within 18 months of the effective date. It also prohibits installation of the affected label on any MBB-BK117 D-2 or D-3 helicopter from the effective date onward. The directive references Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117-25-67-0006 for removal instructions.
Why it matters
The presence of an incorrect EFS label could lead to incomplete inflation of emergency floats during a ditching event, potentially delaying evacuation and increasing risk of injury. Aviation operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must address this unsafe condition to ensure continued airworthiness and occupant safety. Timely compliance prevents operational risks and regulatory non-conformance.
More for Airbus Helicopters MBB-BK 117
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- EASA AD 2026-0152Air Conditioning – Vapor Cycle Air Conditioning System – InspectionJul 30, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0151Main Rotor Drive – Rotor Hub-Shaft – InspectionJul 30, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0127Main Rotor – Swashplate – InspectionJun 30, 2026
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