EASA AD US-2022-03-09
Navigation - Global Positioning System Receiver - Replacement
Summary
The Federal Register document titled "Navigation - Global Positioning System Receiver - Replacement" is a final rule airworthiness directive (AD) issued by the FAA affecting Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-76D helicopters equipped with Thales GPS TopStar 200 LPV receivers, part number C17149HA01. The AD addresses erroneous position outputs from these GPS receivers under certain conditions, which could compromise flight safety. It mandates replacement of the affected GPS receivers to ensure continued safe operation of the helicopters.
What Changed
This new FAA airworthiness directive requires operators of Sikorsky S-76D helicopters with the specified Thales GPS receivers to replace those receivers with an updated part number C17149RA01 within 130 hours time-in-service. It also prohibits installation of the affected GPS receivers on any helicopter going forward. This AD supersedes the previous AD 2020-08-02 upon compliance.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because the affected GPS receivers can provide erroneous aircraft position data, potentially leading to controlled flight into terrain or loss of control. Operators, maintenance, and compliance teams must address this unsafe condition promptly to maintain airworthiness and regulatory compliance. Failure to comply could result in serious safety risks and regulatory penalties.
What To Do
Operators of Sikorsky S-76D helicopters with Thales GPS TopStar 200 LPV receivers P/N C17149HA01 must replace these receivers with P/N C17149RA01 within 130 hours time-in-service from March 17, 2022. Installation of the affected receivers is prohibited from the effective date. Compliance with the Sikorsky Service Bulletin SB 76-017 is required to perform the replacement and software update procedures.
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