Air Conditioning - Electrical Connectors - Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Airbus Helicopters AS350 series, EC130B4, and Bell 206 and 407 helicopters with specified Air Comm air conditioning systems must replace the electrical connectors within 90 hours time-in-service from the effective date. They must also ensure that prohibited parts are not installed in the specified assemblies. The AD became effective on January 22, 2019.
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2018-25-17 is a final rule issued by the FAA addressing Air Comm Corporation air conditioning systems installed on various Airbus Helicopters models including AS350 series and EC130B4, as well as Bell 206 and 407 series helicopters. The directive mandates the replacement of certain electrical connectors in these air conditioning systems to prevent overheating. It applies to specific Air Comm part numbers installed on these helicopters.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive requires operators to replace specified electrical connectors in the affected Air Comm air conditioning systems without performing an inspection. It also prohibits the installation of certain part-numbered plugs, sockets, receptacles, and pins in aft evaporator assemblies, blower assemblies, and condenser blowers. The directive corrects part number errors from the proposed rule and removes some parts erroneously listed.
Why it matters
This directive addresses a critical safety issue where overheated electrical connectors could lead to fire and loss of helicopter control. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and safety of the affected helicopters, reducing risk for operators and maintenance personnel. It also clarifies part number accuracy and installation prohibitions to prevent recurrence of the unsafe condition.
More for Air Comm Corporation CAA UK AAN 25273
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