EASA AD US-2020-02-23
Equipment / Furnishings - Emergency Float Kit Pull Cables - Inspection
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2020-02-23 is a final rule addressing certain Airbus Helicopters models AS350B series and AS355 series equipped with emergency float kits. It mandates repetitive inspections of the pull cable installation on the emergency float kits to ensure proper activation of the float inflation system. This directive aims to prevent asymmetric float inflation or failure to deploy, which could lead to capsizing during water landings.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory repetitive inspections of the pull cables on emergency float kits installed on specified Airbus Helicopters. It requires corrective actions if improper installation is found and sets a compliance timeline shorter than previously recommended by related service bulletins. The directive also incorporates by reference the latest DART Aerospace service bulletin providing inspection and adjustment procedures.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance personnel to ensure the emergency float systems function correctly during water landings, preventing accidents caused by asymmetric float inflation or failure to deploy. Compliance reduces the risk of helicopter capsizing and enhances safety for flights conducted over water. It also affects maintenance planning and resource allocation due to the required inspections and potential corrective actions.
What To Do
Operators of affected Airbus Helicopters must perform inspections of the emergency float kit pull cables within 100 hours time-in-service or 30 days after February 28, 2020, whichever occurs first. If improper installation is detected, corrective rigging must be performed following DART Aerospace service instructions. Operators should obtain and use the specified pull cable test tool and submit any comments on the directive by March 30, 2020.
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