EASA SIB 2012-05: WITHDRAWNÂ - REPLACED BY EASA AD 2019-0144

What to do

Operators of Piaggio P.180 Avanti II aircraft are recommended to implement Service Bulletin 80-0326 Rev. 1 within 1,500 flight hours or 2 years from the bulletin's issue date. All operators of P.180 Avanti and Avanti II models should avoid pressure washing without pitot probe covers, always use protective covers when parked, and ensure proper cleaning of pitot lines per maintenance manual instructions. These recommendations are advisory and not mandatory.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2012-05 addresses the issue of water freezing in pitot lines on Piaggio Aero Industries P.180 aeroplanes, including all serial numbers of the Avanti and Avanti II models. The bulletin highlights reported cases of airspeed indication mismatches and loss of air data computer airspeed information due to water accumulation and freezing in pitot lines. It provides information on the cause, contributing factors, and recommendations to mitigate this issue.

What changed

This bulletin informs operators about the pitot line water freezing issue and introduces Piaggio Aero Industries Service Bulletin 80-0326 Rev. 1, which includes a modification to improve the slope of pitot lines on Avanti II models to reduce water accumulation. It also notes that a similar modification is being developed for the Avanti model. The bulletin does not mandate any Airworthiness Directive but provides safety recommendations.

Why it matters

This information is important for aviation professionals because freezing water in pitot lines can cause unreliable airspeed indications, potentially affecting flight safety. Understanding the contributing factors helps operators and maintenance teams prevent water ingress and freezing, ensuring accurate airspeed data and avoiding operational disruptions. The bulletin guides maintenance and operational practices to mitigate this risk.