AD 2021-15-09 Prompted By Two Events Of Uncommanded Emergency Flotation System (EFS) Deployment

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters.

This AD was prompted by two events of uncommanded emergency flotation system (EFS) deployment during flight. This AD requires replacing certain partnumbered EFS control panels and prohibits installing them. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective August 27, 2021.

Supplementary Information: The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with an EFS control panel part number (P/N) 3G9560V00556 (for use with night vision goggle) or 3G9560V00557 (standard) installed. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 25, 2021 (86 FR 28040). In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require replacing EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00556 and 3G9560V00557 with EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00559 and 3G9560V00558, respectively. The NPRM also proposed to prohibit installing EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00556 and 3G9560V00557 on any helicopter. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2015-0172, dated August 21, 2015 (EASA AD 2015-0172), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for AgustaWestland S.p.A (formerly Agusta S.p.A.), AgustaWestland Philadelphia Corporation (formerly Agusta Aerospace Corporation) (now Leonardo S.p.a.) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with an EFS installed. EASA advises of two events of uncommanded EFS deployment during flight. Subsequent investigation revealed that these conditions had been caused by improper design of EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00556 (for use with night vision goggle) and 3G9560V00557 (standard). This condition, if not addressed, could result in reduced control of the helicopter.

Accordingly, EASA AD 2015-0172 requires replacing EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00556 and 3G9560V00557 with EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00559 and 3G9560V00558, respectively. EASA AD 2015-0172 also prohibits installing EFS control panel P/Ns 3G9560V00556 and 3G9560V00557 on any helicopter.

FMI: www.regulations.gov