Document Raises Awareness Of Possible Hazards And Suggest Mitigations

In order to support the safe return to normal operations (RNO) and to supplement the already published FAQs in continuing airworthiness, EASA has developed the guidelines for de-storage aircraft with the support of industry and national competent authorities.

This document raises awareness of possible hazards and suggest mitigations following the potential risks of aircraft returning to service after storage, emphasizing the need to consider the particularities of each case and the communication with the relevant organizations and competent authorities.

Issue 3 addresses the additional identified risk of Lavatory Fire Extinguishing Bottles found discharged on aircraft parked/stored for a prolonged period of time in a High-Temperature Environment.

EASA notes that, "Aviation operations have been affected heavily by the COVID-19 pandemic and an unprecedented number of aircraft that have been parked/stored. The lack of demand in air travel has caused severe financial pressure on air operators, as well as on their service.

Gradually, as travel restrictions are being lifted and as operators are preparing to resume passenger flights and demand increases, operators will need the aircraft that have been parked/stored and return them back to service. Due to the high number of aircraft involved and the limited supporting resources available to perform the work due to the COVID-19 crisis, organisations and personnel are expected to experience difficulties and increased risks..."

FMI: www.easa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/dfu/Guidelines%20for%20de-storage%20COVID19%20revision%203_for%20publication.pdf