EASA SIB 2011-30: WITHDRAWN - RECOMMENDATIONS NOT NEEDED ANYMORE

What to do

Operators and pilots of Eurocopter EC 120 B and EC 130 B4 helicopters modified with the specified SAGEM Avionics autopilot systems should set cyclic friction according to the Eurocopter Rotorcraft Flight Manual. Pending updated RFMS revisions, manual amendments to the RFMS documents are recommended to reflect this guidance. No explicit compliance deadline is stated, but the updated RFMS revisions were approved as of 21 December 2011.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2011-30 is an informational bulletin addressing a risk of flight control jamming due to lack of cyclic friction on Eurocopter EC 120 B and EC 130 B4 helicopters modified with specific SAGEM Avionics autopilot systems. It highlights a discrepancy between the Rotorcraft Flight Manual and the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement regarding cyclic friction settings. The bulletin aims to alert operators and pilots of these helicopters to this safety concern without imposing mandatory recommendations.

What changed

EASA SIB 2011-30 clarifies that cyclic friction should be set according to the Eurocopter basic Rotorcraft Flight Manual rather than the SAGEM Avionics Rotorcraft Flight Manual Supplement instructions. It recommends manual changes to the RFMS documents to align with the helicopter manufacturer's guidance, ensuring proper autopilot trim system operation and preventing cyclic control jamming.

Why it matters

This bulletin matters because inconsistent instructions on cyclic friction settings can lead to flight control restrictions and reduced helicopter control, posing a safety risk. Operators, maintenance, and compliance teams need to be aware of this to avoid potential autopilot malfunctions and ensure safe flight operations. Although not mandating an Airworthiness Directive, it highlights an important operational consideration for affected helicopters.