EASA SIB 2020-11: Airbus Helicopters AS 350 and AS 355 Helicopters - Rescue Hoist Cable Failure

What to do

Operators should ensure maintenance personnel apply the Airbus Helicopters Maintenance Servicing Manual definitions of hoist cycles for correct maintenance scheduling. Pre-flight and post-flight inspections must be conducted according to Breeze Eastern Component Maintenance Manual instructions. Pilots and hoist operators must fully reel in the hoist cable after each operation to compress the hook bumper and avoid cable damage. There are no specified compliance deadlines as the recommendations are not mandatory.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2020-11 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing rescue hoist cable failure on Airbus Helicopters AS 350 and AS 355 models equipped with Breeze Eastern 450 lb BL-29700 series hoists. The bulletin reports a cable failure during an in-flight test, identifies probable causes, and provides safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents. It emphasizes the importance of correct maintenance and operation of the hoist system to ensure safe human external cargo operations.

What changed

This bulletin introduces safety information regarding the failure of the hoist cable (Part Number BL 126061) near the hook terminal due to incorrect hoist stowing after operation. It provides clarifications on hoist cycle definitions and maintenance criteria to prevent cable damage. The bulletin does not mandate regulatory action but offers guidance to operators and maintenance personnel.

Why it matters

The information is critical for operators and maintenance teams to prevent potential loss of external loads or humans during hoist operations, which could lead to serious accidents. Proper maintenance and operational procedures reduce the risk of cable failure caused by wear, fatigue, or incorrect stowing. Understanding these recommendations helps ensure continued airworthiness and safety compliance without triggering mandatory directives.