EC135 & EC635 - Operation with Emergency Flotation System ARMED
- Published
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Owners and operators of EC135 and EC635 helicopters equipped with emergency flotation systems should review and implement the procedures outlined in the referenced Eurocopter Deutschland Alert Service Information EC135-A108 Revision 01 and the applicable Flight Manual Supplement. They must ensure the 'FILL FLOATS' switch is correctly secured and not reset inadvertently during ground operations. There is no mandatory compliance deadline as this is an informational bulletin.
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2009-11 is an advisory document addressing the operation of EC135 and EC635 helicopters equipped with an emergency flotation system. It highlights the need to follow specific procedures when the flotation system is set to ARMED to prevent unintentional release during flight. The bulletin references Eurocopter Deutschland Alert Service Information EC135-A108 Revision 01 for detailed guidance.
What changed
This bulletin introduces operational recommendations to avoid accidental deployment of the emergency flotation system on EC135 and EC635 helicopters. It emphasizes adherence to flight manual supplements, including a maximum airspeed limit of 80 knots when the system is armed, and proper securing of the 'FILL FLOATS' switch and its protective cap to prevent unintended activation.
Why it matters
Unintentional release of the emergency flotation system at speeds above 80 knots can cause sudden changes in flight attitude and potentially compromise helicopter controllability, posing safety risks. Operators and maintenance personnel must be aware of these risks to ensure safe flight operations and prevent equipment damage or detachment of flotation devices.
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