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The Airbus Safety magazine
Latest Articles
Breaking the Ice
In icing conditions, the engine anti-ice system protects the engine inlet, however, ice can still accumulate on the fan blades, spinner and other engine internal components. If not removed before takeoff, this ice can trigger severe engine vibrations, engine stalls during takeoff and climb, loss of thrust during climb and permanent engine damage.This article recalls the main steps of the ice shedding procedure, and highlights why compliance with this regulatory procedure is a critical safety barrier.
Preventing Inadvertent Slide Deployments
Between 2021 and 2025, 155 Inadvertent Slide Deployments (ISDs) during normal operations and 189 ISDs during maintenance operations were reported to Airbus.ISDs represent a significant safety threat that can cause injuries and also damage to aircraft and airport equipment. This article recalls the various types of doors available on Airbus aircraft and the three possible installations of their slides. It details the main causes of ISDs during normal operations and during maintenance, and provides recommendations on how to prevent them.
Proper EWIS Maintenance for Safe Operations
The volume of electrical wiring in aircraft has increased significantly since the beginning of commercial aviation. This extensive network is known as the Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS).EWIS is essential for safe aircraft operations, as it enables both electrical power distribution and information transfer between the various aircraft systems. When not detected, a damaged EWIS component can cause loss of signal, short circuits, arcing, overheat, fumes and flames.This article explains why it is important to regularly check EWIS components. It also recalls the typical damage that EWIS can sustain with its associated risks, and provides guidance and recommendations to prevent them.
Safe Aircraft Parking
Incorrect or incomplete application of the parking procedures at the end of a flight can lead to unexpected aircraft movement potentially resulting in injuries or significant damage from a collision with ground obstacles. Several cases of this type of event during maintenance are reported to Airbus each year.This article provides an overview of the parking brake architecture and explains the importance of checking accumulator pressure before applying the park brake, and then confirming there is sufficient hydraulic pressure at the brake unit. It also describes the safety enhancement available on A320 family and A330/A340 aircraft and gives recommendations for chock design and placement.
Use of Non-Certified Equipment on Cockpit Windows
The use of non-certified equipment, like sunshades or suction cup mounted devices, on the inner surface of cockpit windows may create risks to the windows integrity and therefore aircraft safety.This document highlights the risks associated with non-certified equipment used on cockpit windows. It provides operational recommendations to flight crews and recalls that certified tablet holders, mounted on the windows’ frame, are available as a safe alternative.
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