EASA AD US-2018-18-12: Superseded by FAA AD 2019-16-16

What to do

Affected operators must revise the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement within 30 days of the effective date to include the new limitations. They must also ensure that helicopters are not operated with a wet inlet barrier filter and replace the filter element if moisture is detected. Compliance with these actions is mandatory by September 25, 2018.

Summary

FAA Airworthiness Directive 2018-18-12 is a final rule addressing Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, and AS350BA equipped with Pall Aerospace Corporation inlet barrier filter elements part numbers CE01301F2 or CE01301F2B. This directive mandates revisions to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement to prohibit operation with a wet inlet barrier filter and requires replacement of the filter if it becomes wet. The AD aims to prevent engine flameout caused by excessive water ingestion through the filter.

What changed

This new airworthiness directive introduces a requirement to revise the rotorcraft flight manual supplement to include operational limitations prohibiting flight with a wet inlet barrier filter. It also mandates replacement of the filter element if wet. These measures are in response to incidents of engine flameout caused by water ingestion through certain dry-media inlet barrier filters without hydrophobic coating.

Why it matters

This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk that can lead to engine failure and loss of helicopter control during wet weather operations. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to avoid forced landings and potential accidents. The directive also clarifies inspection and operational procedures to mitigate water accumulation risks in the inlet barrier filter.

What to do

Summary

What changed

Why it matters

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