AD 2022-02-17 Prompted By Reports Of Engine Flame Out Following Prolonged Operations In Falling Snow

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB-BK 117 C-2, MBB-BK 117 D-2, and MBB-BK 117 D-3 helicopters.

This AD was prompted by reports of engine flame out following prolonged operations in falling snow on helicopters with an inlet barrier filter (IBF) system installed. This AD requires revising the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD becomes effective February 10, 2022.

Supplementary Information: EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD 2021-0289-E, dated December 23, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-0289-E), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD), formerly Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH; and Airbus Helicopters Inc., formerly American Eurocopter LLC, Model MBB-BK117 C-2, D-2, D-3, and D-3m helicopters, all variants, all serial numbers.

This AD was prompted by reports of engine flame out following prolonged operations in falling snow with the IBF system installed. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent partial icing of an IBF engine intake and engine flame out. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in engine failure and reduced control of the helicopter, possibly resulting in damage to the helicopter or injury to occupants. See EASA AD 2021-0289-E for additional background information.

FMI: www.regulations.gov