EASA SIB 2010-14: Installation of Unapproved Carbon Brake Heat Packs

What to do

Operators and maintenance personnel should review aircraft technical logs for any history of heat pack repairs or replacements and verify part numbers during landing gear wheel removals against approved documentation from the Type Certificate holder or ETSOA holder. Any unapproved parts found must be removed, quarantined, and reported to the OEM and EASA. No specific compliance deadline is stated, but ongoing vigilance is recommended.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2010-14 addresses the installation of unapproved carbon brake heat packs on all Part 25 transport category aeroplanes equipped with carbon brakes. It highlights that brake assemblies modified with unapproved heat packs no longer meet certification standards and may affect aircraft safety. The bulletin applies broadly to transport aeroplanes with carbon brakes and provides guidance to owners, operators, and maintenance personnel.

What changed

This bulletin introduces a warning against the installation of unapproved replacement heat packs in carbon brake assemblies, emphasizing that only holders of a European Technical Standard Order Authorisation or equivalent approval may design changes. It clarifies that alternative brake assemblies or heat packs require approval through a Major Change or Supplemental Type Certificate. The bulletin does not mandate Airworthiness Directive action but raises awareness of potential safety concerns.

Why it matters

For aviation professionals, this bulletin underscores the importance of maintaining compliance with certification standards for brake assemblies to ensure aircraft safety and proper brake function. Unapproved parts may lead to unknown effects, including loss of braking control during critical operations like rejected takeoffs. Operators and maintenance teams must be vigilant to prevent installation of unapproved components, which could compromise airworthiness and operational safety.