Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2009L03003:body:0:p2
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2009L03003
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 3968–5191

next flight requiring operation with the life-rafts aboard.
             This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 3 August 2009.
Background:  During overhaul of one of the life-rafts (i.e. sponson-mounted optional kit) on an AS 332 L1 helicopter, it was reported that the life-raft inflation cylinder was empty and that there was a leak at the frangible disc of the cylinder.  It was further reported that the helicopter electrical harness dedicated to the inflation control system of the life-rafts had signs of deterioration.

             The technical analysis has shown that residual current in the electrical harness of the life-raft inflation control system causes damage to the life-raft inflation cylinder frangible disc, which explains the progressive pressure drop in the cylinder.  This condition, if not corrected, might lead to life-rafts deployment unavailability in case of emergency ditching, possibly preventing the occupants to escape safely from the helicopter.
             This Directive requires the check of the life-rafts inflation control system and, depending on findings, repair and/or replacement action(s).

James Coyne
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

30 July 2009