EASA SIB 2010-15R1: Improper Maintenance of Safety Belts / Torso Restraint Systems

What to do

Affected maintenance organisations and operators should verify that all safety belts and torso restraint systems have been maintained using applicable current maintenance data as per Part 145.A.45. They should review labels on safety belts for maintenance organisation identification and consult their National Aviation Authority for guidance. Any maintenance performed without proper data should be addressed promptly, and repair approvals must be obtained through EASA or the original design approval holders as required.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2010-15R1 addresses the improper maintenance of safety belts and torso restraint systems installed on aircraft. It highlights that some Part 145 maintenance organisations in Europe, including Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands, have performed maintenance without using applicable current maintenance data, rendering affected safety belts and restraint systems potentially non-airworthy. The bulletin applies to all safety belts and torso restraint systems maintained after 28 November 2003 without proper data and lists specific design approval holders forbidding webbing replacement in their Component Maintenance Manuals.

What changed

This revision of the bulletin informs that non-compliance with applicable maintenance data by Part 145 organisations has been found in multiple European countries beyond the initially reported case. It clarifies that maintenance data must come from design approval holders and that production drawings alone are insufficient. The bulletin also explains the regulatory framework for approving repairs or design changes to safety belts and torso restraint systems, emphasizing the invalidity of release certificates issued without compliance.

Why it matters

This bulletin is critical for aviation professionals because improper maintenance of safety belts and torso restraint systems compromises aircraft safety and airworthiness. Operators and maintenance organisations must ensure compliance with current maintenance data to avoid invalid release certificates and potential safety risks. Understanding the regulatory requirements for repairs and design changes helps maintain compliance with EASA regulations and ensures continued airworthiness of restraint systems.