EASA SIB 2024-09: Adherence to Operational Limitations for Non-Aerobatic General Aviation Aircraft

What to do

Owners and operators of non-aerobatic GA aircraft should review and strictly follow the operational limitations detailed in the applicable EASA Type Certificate Data Sheet and Aeroplane Flight Manual. If there is any suspicion that load limits have been exceeded or abrupt maneuvers performed, they should consult the Aircraft Maintenance Manual for unscheduled maintenance and contact the type certificate holder for guidance. Additionally, they should report any misleading or inaccurate public information about their aircraft to the type certificate holder for corrective action.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2024-09 is an airworthiness bulletin addressing the adherence to operational limitations for all types of non-aerobatic General Aviation (GA) aircraft. It highlights concerns about some non-aerobatic GA aeroplanes being operated beyond their certified flight envelopes and warns against performing aerobatic maneuvers on aircraft not certified for such operations. The bulletin also notes the presence of misleading public information regarding the aerobatic capabilities of certain ultralight or similarly styled aircraft.

What changed

EASA SIB 2024-09 introduces a formal reminder to GA aircraft owners and operators to strictly comply with the approved operational limitations, particularly load factor limits, and prohibits aerobatic maneuvers such as spins and steep turns exceeding 60° bank angle on non-aerobatic aircraft. It also advises avoiding abrupt control inputs above the maneuvering speed and recommends reporting any misleading public information about aircraft capabilities to the type certificate holders.

Why it matters

This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because exceeding certified operational limits can compromise aircraft structural integrity, potentially leading to catastrophic failure. Operators and maintenance organizations must be vigilant in adhering to approved flight manuals and maintenance instructions to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. It also encourages proactive communication with type certificate holders to address any safety concerns or misinformation.