EASA SIB 2008-43
Sikorsky S-92 helicopters - Over Pressurisation of Fuel Cells during Pressure Refuelling, causing damage to Sponsons
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No. 2008-43 is a safety advisory concerning Sikorsky S-92 helicopters. It addresses the issue of over pressurisation of fuel cells during pressure refuelling, which can cause damage to the helicopter's sponsons. The bulletin references Sikorsky Safety Advisory SSA-S92-08-004 and provides guidance to operators of all serial numbers of the S-92 model.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces operational warnings and recommendations to prevent damage caused by over pressurisation during pressure refuelling of Sikorsky S-92 helicopters. It advises operators to prefer gravity refuelling and provides detailed precautions when pressure refuelling is necessary. Sikorsky is also working on a modification to improve fuel system vents to eliminate the over pressurisation issue.
Why It Matters
This information is critical for aviation professionals as over pressurisation can damage the sponsons, potentially leading to safety hazards and costly repairs. Operators and maintenance teams need to be aware of the risks during refuelling to protect personnel and maintain aircraft airworthiness. Compliance with these recommendations helps ensure safe and reliable operation of the Sikorsky S-92 fleet.
What To Do
Operators of Sikorsky S-92 helicopters should use gravity refuelling whenever possible. If pressure refuelling is necessary, they must follow the specific precautions outlined, such as minimizing pressure refuelling with rotors turning, avoiding high wind conditions, monitoring fuel quantity closely, and maintaining communication between cockpit and refuelling personnel. There is no mandatory compliance deadline, but adherence to these recommendations is strongly advised until a modification is developed.
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