EASA SIB CASA-2016-11: Bell Helicopter Textron Canada 206L helicopters - Inspection and Replacement of Engine Mount Legs

What to do

Operators of Bell 206L-series helicopters should familiarize themselves with Bell Helicopter Operation Safety Notice 206L-15-51 and inspect all engine mount leg surfaces during scheduled maintenance, removing any clamps as needed. They must replace or repair any parts showing corrosion, cracks, mechanical damage, or other signs of degradation, and consider replacing all legs of similar age or usage if one is unserviceable. Any unserviceable parts found should be reported to Transport Canada via a Service Difficulty Report.

Summary

The Transport Canada Civil Aviation Safety Alert CASA 2016-11 addresses the inspection and replacement of engine mount legs on Bell Helicopter Textron Canada 206L-series helicopters, including models 206L, 206L-1, 206L-3, and 206L-4. It highlights the importance of thoroughly inspecting these engine mount legs for corrosion and cracking, and replacing deteriorated parts to maintain airworthiness and safety.

What changed

This CASA introduces a safety emphasis on inspecting all surfaces of the engine mount legs, including removing clamps that may hide damage. It also informs operators about the introduction of corrosion-resistant stainless steel engine mount legs and clarifies that even these improved parts can suffer from cracks and corrosion. The alert stresses replacing all similar legs on the helicopter when one requires replacement due to corrosion or cracking.

Why it matters

This alert matters because corrosion or cracking in engine mount legs can compromise the structural integrity of the engine support, potentially affecting flight safety. Since some damage may be hidden or internal, thorough inspections are critical to detect deterioration early. Operators, maintenance organizations, and compliance teams must ensure these inspections and replacements are performed to prevent possible engine support failure during flight or ground operations.