Enstrom 280, F-28 series Helicopters - Fuel Level Indication
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AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Operators should perform the visual fuel quantity check specified in the flight manual before each flight to confirm the fuel indicator matches the actual fuel level. If discrepancies occur, the fuel indicating system must be serviced according to the maintenance manual. Additionally, during periodic inspections, maintenance teams should verify that the wristlock wiring connections are properly secured with tie-wraps as per the maintenance manual instructions.
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: SW-12-10R1 is issued by the FAA to address fuel level indication issues in Enstrom Helicopter Corporation piston aircraft, including the F-28A, F-28C, F-28F, 280, 280C, 280F, and 280FX helicopter models. This bulletin informs operators about the risk of false fuel quantity readings that may lead to fuel exhaustion during flight. It provides safety information and recommendations to verify fuel quantity indications and maintain the fuel system properly.
What changed
SAIB SW-12-10R1 revises the original bulletin to include all Enstrom piston aircraft using the same fuel system, expanding the scope beyond the initial models. It highlights the cause of false 'Full' fuel quantity indications due to disconnected fuel level sending unit wires at the wristlock between fuel tanks. The bulletin introduces recommendations for pre-flight visual fuel checks and periodic inspections of the wristlock wiring connections.
Why it matters
This bulletin is critical for aviation professionals because false fuel quantity indications can lead to fuel exhaustion accidents, posing serious safety risks. Operators and maintenance personnel must be aware of this issue to prevent in-flight fuel starvation and ensure accurate fuel monitoring. Compliance with the recommendations helps maintain aircraft airworthiness and operational safety.
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