EASA SIB BEA-2023-03
Operation in Icing Conditions — Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Bulletin BEA Nº 2023-03 provides information on the operation of the Embraer EMB-500 (Phenom 100) ice protection system and emphasizes the importance of adhering to the manufacturer's standard operating procedures during icing conditions. It reviews three accidents involving the EMB-500 where improper use or deactivation of the wing and stabilizer de-ice system contributed to stalls and hard landings. The bulletin also explains the effects of ice formation on aircraft performance and details the EMB-500's ice protection and stall warning systems.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces a detailed review of past accidents related to icing conditions on the EMB-500 and reinforces the manufacturer's procedures for timely activation and proper use of the ice protection systems. It clarifies that activation of the WINGSTAB de-ice system should not be delayed and highlights the importance of keeping the system on until the aircraft is confirmed free of ice. The bulletin does not impose mandatory requirements but serves as an informative advisory.
Why It Matters
For aviation professionals, this bulletin underscores the critical safety risks associated with improper management of ice protection systems on the EMB-500. Operators and flight crews must understand that failure to activate or premature deactivation of ice protection can lead to stall conditions and accidents. Compliance teams and MROs should ensure that training and operational procedures align with the manufacturer's guidance to mitigate icing hazards effectively.
What To Do
Operators and flight crews of the Embraer EMB-500 should strictly follow the Airplane Flight Manual procedures for ice protection system activation, especially the WINGSTAB de-ice system, when icing conditions are forecasted or detected. The system must remain activated until the aircraft is confirmed free of ice accretion. No compliance deadline is specified as this bulletin is informative and not mandatory, but immediate adherence to these recommendations is advised to enhance safety.