EASA SIB 2019-15R1: Flight Recorders on Small Rotorcraft

What to do

Owners and operators of small rotorcraft registered in EASA member states are recommended to consider installing flight data recorders and maintain them according to manufacturer instructions. Type certificate and supplemental type certificate holders should offer flight recorder installation as part of the basic configuration or retrofit options and provide maintenance guidance to operators. There are no mandatory compliance deadlines as this is an informational bulletin with non-binding recommendations.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin No. 2019-15R1 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing the installation of flight recorders on small rotorcraft certified under CS-27, JAR-27, FAR-27, or equivalent regulations. It promotes the use of flight data recorders, including both crash-protected and lightweight types, to enhance safety by recording flight data continuously from take-off to landing. The bulletin applies to type certificate and supplemental type certificate holders, owners, and operators of small rotorcraft not currently required by air operations rules to carry flight recorders.

What changed

EASA SIB 2019-15R1 revises the previous version dated 19 November 2019 by reaffirming and expanding recommendations for installing flight recorders on small rotorcraft. It clarifies the broad definition of flight recorders to include various types and emphasizes proportionality in solutions. The bulletin also highlights the benefits of recorded flight data for operational management, troubleshooting, safety risk assessment, and accident investigation.

Why it matters

This bulletin matters because it encourages operators and manufacturers of small rotorcraft to voluntarily install flight recorders, which can significantly improve safety outcomes and operational oversight. Flight data recorders provide valuable information that supports training, maintenance, and accident investigations, helping to reduce risks and improve fleet management. Although not mandatory, adopting these recommendations can enhance compliance with safety management systems and regulatory expectations.