Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-17133 · Autopilot system
Eurocopter France Helicopters
This AD applies to Model EC155B1 helicopters with an automated flight control system part number (P/N) 416-00297-161 and software level P/N 704A47-1332-79 installed, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model EC155B1 helicopters with a certain automated flight control system installed. This AD requires changing the minimum required crew for instrument flight rules (IFR) operations from one pilot to two. This AD is prompted by a report that an EC155B1 helicopter experienced significant intermittent roll oscillations while coupled to the autopilot. These actions are intended to decrease the pilot's workload while experiencing any oscillations during landing, which could result in possible loss of control of the helicopter.
You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time.
Before further flight, revise the Operating Limitations section of Eurocopter EC 155B1 Flight Manual Section 2.1, by inserting a copy of this AD into the Flight Manual or by making pen and ink changes as follows. Under paragraph 5, Minimum Flight Crew/Maximum Personnel Transport Capability, beneath “Minimum flight crew,” remove the phrase “—one pilot in right-hand seat” and replace it as follows:
—VFR: One pilot in right-hand seat.
—IFR: Two pilots required.
