Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2008L04641:body:0:p3
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2008L04641
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 5945–7372

in case of emergency.  This Airworthiness Directive requires an inspection of the emergency flotation gear installation to verify the conformity of its fixed and removable parts.

             The original issue of this Directive, effective on 23 June 2004, was issued to limit the helicopter all-up weight to 1,950 kg, for all flights over water, for AS 350 BA helicopters equipped with Aerazur emergency floatation gear specified in the applicability part of this Directive.

             Amendment 1 allows operation at all-up weights greater than 1950 kg for operations over water where the underslung load is jettisonable or the helicopter is flown within autorotative gliding distance from land.  The requirements of CAO 20.11 Section 5.3 "Helicopter Floatation Systems" still apply and are not affected by this Airworthiness Directive.  There is no change to the compliance time in this amendment.

             Amendment 2 was issued to introduce the current EASA Airworthiness Directive related to this Directive, which clarified helicopter applicability; with no change to technical requirements.

             Amendment 3 expands the applicability to include B and D model aircraft and to limit the maximum weights for over water operations for all applicable aircraft depending on any incorrect combinations of equipment fitted.

David Villiers
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

9 December 2008