EASA SIB 2016-21
WITHDRAWN - RECOMMENDATIONS NOT NEEDED ANYMORE
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2016-21 is a safety information bulletin addressing a visual check on the Main Gearbox (MGB) and the flared housing for Airbus Helicopters SA365 / AS365 C, C1, C2, C3, N, N1, N2, N3, and EC155 B and B1 models. The bulletin informs about a non-conforming assembly of the MGB housing that may reduce lubrication but does not constitute an unsafe condition requiring an Airworthiness Directive. It provides guidance for operators to verify proper assembly through alignment of specific red markings on the MGB and flared housing.
What Changed
This bulletin withdraws previous recommendations as they are no longer needed. It clarifies that the identified issue with the MGB housing assembly does not require mandatory corrective action under current regulations. Instead, it advises operators to perform a visual check to confirm alignment of red markings as per Airbus Helicopters Safety Information Notice N° 3116-S-63.
Why It Matters
This information is important for aviation professionals because it helps operators and maintenance organizations understand that the MGB housing issue does not currently pose an unsafe condition requiring regulatory enforcement. It allows maintenance teams to focus on a simple visual inspection rather than more extensive interventions, optimizing resource allocation and ensuring continued airworthiness without unnecessary operational disruptions.
What To Do
Operators of the affected Airbus Helicopters models should perform a visual check to verify that the red markings on the MGB and the flared housing are aligned, following the instructions in Airbus Helicopters Safety Information Notice N° 3116-S-63. There is no mandatory compliance deadline as this bulletin provides non-mandatory recommendations for information only.