EASA SIB BEA-2020-02: Yabora Industria Aeronautica ERJ-170 & ERJ-190 Aeroplanes - Operation in weather conditions with high concentration of ice crystals

What to do

Operators of ERJ170-100, ERJ170-200, ERJ190-100, and ERJ190-200 aircraft should adopt the procedures outlined in Embraer Flight Operation Letter FOL N°: 170-006/18, Revision 01, including circumnavigating thunderclouds by 25 miles or more and descending to lower altitudes if ice crystal icing is suspected. Flight crews must avoid flying over areas with high ice crystal concentrations and remain clear of convective activity after recovery. There are no compliance deadlines as this bulletin is informative.

Summary

The Yaborã Industria Aeronautica ERJ-170 & ERJ-190 Aeroplanes - Operation in weather conditions with high concentration of ice crystals is a Special Airworthiness Bulletin issued to inform operators of ERJ170-100, ERJ170-200, ERJ190-100, and ERJ190-200 aircraft about the risk of in-flight thrust loss when flying in weather with high ice crystal concentrations. This bulletin highlights the unique hazard posed by ice crystal icing, which is difficult to detect by radar and can affect engine performance. The document provides guidance but does not impose mandatory requirements or an Airworthiness Directive.

What changed

This bulletin introduces awareness of the ice crystal icing phenomenon affecting certain Yaborã Industria Aeronautica ERJ-170 and ERJ-190 models and recommends operational procedures to mitigate the risk. It does not mandate changes but advises operators to follow Embraer's Flight Operation Letter FOL N°: 170-006/18, Revision 01, for standard operating procedures related to ice crystal icing. No Airworthiness Directive has been issued at this time.

Why it matters

This bulletin is important for aviation professionals because ice crystal icing can cause unexpected thrust loss and engine performance issues, posing safety risks during flight. Operators and maintenance teams need to understand this phenomenon to prevent incidents and ensure safe operation in convective weather conditions. Awareness and adherence to recommended procedures help mitigate risks without regulatory penalties.