Equipment / Furnishings - Float Assemblies - Repair / Replacement
- Published
- Effective
- Deadline
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators of affected Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109 and AW109SP helicopters must inspect and repair or replace the specified float assemblies within 300 hours time-in-service or six months from February 17, 2023, whichever occurs first. Repairs or replacements must be approved by the FAA Los Angeles ACO Branch. Operators who completed actions per DART Aerospace Service Bulletin SB2021-05 before the effective date may receive credit for compliance.
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration's Airworthiness Directive 2023-01-02 addresses certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109 series helicopters and AW109SP helicopters modified by Supplemental Type Certificate SR01812LA with DART Aerospace 634.4100 Kit Series float assemblies. This directive mandates repair or replacement of specific float assemblies due to a faulty plunger assembly that can prevent float deployment. The AD aims to ensure safe emergency water landings by correcting this unsafe condition.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive requires operators to repair or replace affected float assemblies installed on specified Leonardo helicopters within 300 flight hours or six months. It introduces mandatory compliance with repair or replacement methods approved by the FAA's Los Angeles ACO Branch. Additionally, credit is provided for prior compliance with DART Aerospace Service Bulletin SB2021-05.
Why it matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk where floats may fail to deploy during emergency water landings, potentially causing the helicopter to roll or capsize. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to maintain airworthiness and passenger safety. The directive also clarifies acceptable repair methods and acknowledges prior corrective actions, aiding compliance management.
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- EASA AD 2026-0115Stabilizers – Torque Tube Assembly – InspectionJun 15, 2026
- EASA AD 2026-0045Rotors Flight Control — Collective Stick Torque Tube Assembly — Inspection / Replacement
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New ADs and bulletins for Leonardo S.P.A. Helicopters A109, S.P.A. Helicopters A119, A109 and AW109SP, summarized like this page, every Monday.