EASA AD 26-116
Equipment / Furnishings – System Interface Unit – Replacement
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive Proposal 26-116 is a regulatory document addressing Airbus Helicopters H160-B helicopters. It mandates the replacement of the System Interface Unit (SIU) Part Number 704A45751326 to ensure continued airworthiness and safety. The directive clarifies maintenance intervals and overhaul requirements for this critical component.
What Changed
This new proposed Airworthiness Directive introduces a requirement to replace affected SIUs based on their time since manufacture or last overhaul, correcting discrepancies between maintenance manuals. It establishes clear compliance times for replacement and allows installation of only serviceable SIUs going forward.
Why It Matters
This directive is important because overdue SIU overhauls could result in failure to deploy emergency beacons during survivable accidents, potentially delaying rescue operations. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain safety and regulatory conformity, avoiding operational risks and penalties.
What To Do
Operators of Airbus Helicopters H160-B must replace affected SIUs within six months if the unit has accumulated more than 9 years and 6 months since manufacture or last overhaul, or before reaching 10 years. Only serviceable SIUs may be installed after the effective date, and all replacements must follow Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin H160-25-65-0004 instructions.
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