EASA SIB BEA-2026-01
Ice and Rain Protection - Replacement of Pitot #3 Heater Wiring
Summary
BEA 2026-01 is a Special Airworthiness Bulletin issued by ANAC addressing the replacement of Pitot #3 heater wiring on Embraer S.A. EMB-145 and EMB-135BJ aircraft models. The bulletin recommends incorporating Embraer Service Bulletins SB145-30-0058 and SB145LEG-30-0024 to upgrade the wiring gauge and related components. This bulletin applies to multiple EMB-145 and EMB-135 variants and aims to improve electrical safety in the ice and rain protection system.
What Changed
BEA 2026-01 revises SAB 2019-04R1 by recommending the replacement of the Pitot #3 heater wiring from 16 AWG to 12 AWG and updating associated sockets and relay contact pins. It introduces additional recommended actions to align the wiring with the circuit breaker's electrical protection capacity and the pitot heater's power rating. The bulletin also clarifies that this is an informational recommendation and does not currently mandate an Airworthiness Directive.
Why It Matters
This bulletin addresses safety concerns related to electrical overheating and poor contacts in the Pitot #3 heating circuit, which have previously caused smoke in the flight deck. For operators and maintenance organizations, implementing these recommendations reduces the risk of electrical failures and potential in-flight hazards. Compliance helps ensure continued airworthiness and reliability of critical ice and rain protection systems on affected Embraer aircraft.
What To Do
Owners and operators of affected Embraer EMB-145 and EMB-135BJ aircraft should replace the Pitot #3 heater wiring from 16 AWG to 12 AWG, update the relay socket contact pins A1 and C1, and reidentify components as specified in Embraer Service Bulletins SB145-30-0058 and SB145LEG-30-0024. These actions are recommended but not currently mandatory, and stakeholders should monitor for any future Airworthiness Directives. For further information, contact ANAC's Gerência Técnica de Aeronavegabilidade Continuada.