As part of its commitment to safety, Airbus Helicopters develops Safety Information Notices and other technical publications to provide customers with valuable information related to the company’s products and services. This section contains some of these documents. Airbus Helicopters customers can consult the entire library of technical publications through the company’s Technical Information Publication on Internet (T.I.P.I) according to their subscription.
General safety resources
- Autorotation Management and Training
- Passenger Pressure Management
- Easy Access Rules for Aircrew updated - Revision from June 2020
- Flight Recorders for Light Helicopters
- Pre-Flight Risk Assessment and Attitude
- Wellbeing for the Rotorcraft Community
- The Challenges with Safety Implementation
- Wind Farm Recommended Practice
- Technologies with Safety Benefits
- Main Rotorcraft Safety Issues
- Rotorcraft Safety Statistics
- Safety Analysis, Accidents and Occurrences
- Strategic Safety Actions in EPAS
The European Helicopter Safety Team (EHEST) regularly releases guidance to improve helicopter safety. Airbus Helicopters publishes SINS on some of these subjects to impart this knowledge to operators:
- HE2 Helicopter pilot airmanship
- HE5 Risk management in training
- HE6 Advantages of simulators in helicopter flight training
- HE7 Technique for helicopter operations in hilly and mountainous terrain
- HE9 Automation and flight path management
- HE10 Teaching and testing in flight simulation training devices
- HE11 Training and testing of Emergency and abnormal procedures in Helicopters
- HE13 leaflet HE 13 weather threat for VMC flights
- EHEST Helicopter Flight Instructor Guide Download
Unanticipated right yaw (main rotor rotating counter clockwise), commonly referred to as LTE
Information relative to Unanticipated right yaw
Download 3298-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 1492 Ko)
Fenestron versus Conventional Tail Rotor (CTR) for helicopters equipped with a main rotor rotating counterclockwise when seen from above
Associated with Safety Information Notice No. 3298-S-00, this Information Notice is a reminder on the yaw axis control for all helicopters in certain flight conditions, and indicates some specific characteristics of the Fenestron that must be remembered, especially when transitioning from a helicopter equipped with a conventional tail rotor (CTR).
Download 3540-I-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 115 Ko)
Safety Information Notice for unanticipated left yaw (main rotor rotating clockwise), commonly referred to as LTE
Information relative to unanticipated left yaw
Download 3297-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 335 Ko)
Fenestron versus Conventional Tail Rotor (CTR) for helicopters equipped with a main rotor rotating clockwise when seen from above 3540-I-00
Download 3539-I-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 539Ko)
Proactive decision-making with Airbus Helicopters’ "Before Your Flight" risk assessment app
Download SPN 3400-P-00-Rev-1 - (PDF 525 Ko)
This Safety Promotion Notice describes the practice of Pre Flight Risk Assessment and the app developed by Airbus Helicopters to support pilots in its application. Available for both iOS and Android environment, you can download the android version here or click on link below:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.airbushelicopters.BeforeYourFlight
ESPN-R Hoist Task Force recommendations along with a brief history of the hoist's use in the rotorcraft industry
Airbus Helicopters provides as an add-on and under the same SPN numbering additional information on hoist missions and operations, partially specifically tailored to aircraft configurations and missions that are only available or seen with Airbus Helicopters types"
Download 3195-P-00-Rev-1 - (PDF 4,76 Mo)
Flight Operations Support “Crew Help Desk”
The support function “Crew Help Desk” dedicated to Customers’ aircrew(s) & Flight Operations manager(s) is aimed at reinforcing Flight Safety and operational efficiency. The Crew Help Desk support is part of the AIRBUS HELICOPTERS HCare Worldwide Customer Support. The main point of this update 2 deals with the procedure for contacting us.
Download FOBN_3-00_Rev-2 - (PDF English Version 2 990 Ko)
Reporting of in-service events
Improving flight safety has always been and will always be Airbus Helicopters’ first priority. This constant improvement in safety can only be achieved with the help of all those involved in aviation, through rapid, accurate and exhaustive exchange of information concerning all events considered as abnormal, which have or can potentially have an effect on flight safety.
Download SIN 3242-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 564 Ko)
Risk of hypoxia for aircrew and passengers when operating at high altitude
In line with our constant commitment to improving the safety of helicopter operations, Airbus Helicopters would like to share information about the risk of hypoxia when operating at high altitude. This risk should be considered by aircrew and operators within their Safety Management Systems (SMS) according to your operations.
Download SIN 3074-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 527 Ko)
Main safety tips to be applied close to or at VNE
Following several events occurring during high speed flights, reported to Airbus Helicopters, it seems necessary to issue a reminder that great care should be taken when flying near or at the speed limit (VNE). It requires higher situation awareness and the pilot's full attention due to the helicopter’s handling qualities near this limit. The following points are not specific to any helicopter type and must be known and understood by flight crews.
Download SIN 3093-S-00-Rev-2 - PDF English Version 235 Ko)
Protection and use of helicopters in cold weather and in damp conditions
The experience gained on our helicopters has revealed some cases of engine flameout or damage occurring shortly after takeoff. The helicopters had previously been subject to cold weather in snowy or rainy conditions, and parked in the open.
Download IN 2302-I-00-Rev-1 - (PDF English Version 500 Ko)
Spreading of information from the FAA and EASA regarding the use of additional restraint systems for passengers, and from the EASA regarding the use of water surfaces as forced landing areas
Following a fatal helicopter accident on the East River near New York City on March 11, 2018 involving an Airbus Helicopters AS350 B2, Airbus Helicopters would like to inform his customers of the release of a Notice (N8900.457) by the FAA on April 10, 2018 and of two SIBs (2018-15 & 2018-16) by the EASA on September 07, 2018:
Download SIN 3299-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 195Ko)
Wearing polarized sunglasses
Airbus Helicopters informs you that wearing polarized sunglasses in flight can have an impact on the good reading of information displayed on the cockpit panel.
Download SIN 3007-S-00-Rev-0 (PDF English Version 739 Ko)
External load operations
In line with our constant commitment to improving the safety of helicopter operations, Airbus Helicopters would like to share information about some recent accidents which have occurred during sling load operations.
Download SIN 3170-S-00-Rev-2 - (PDF English Version 1003 Ko)
Follow-up of recommendations and limitations associated with the use of bucket-type fire-fighting systems
Airbus Helicopters recently participated in several investigations into accidents and serious incidents during fire-fighting operations involving helicopters equipped with Bucket*-type suspended systems installed under STC (Supplemental Type Certificate).
Download SIN 3349-S-25-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 319 Ko)
Correct use of seats and restraint systems to minimize the risk of injury
Airbus Helicopters has taken part in investigations following incidents/accidents during which it was determined that crew members and/or occupants did not properly use the helicopter’s occupant protection features, including seats and restraint systems, thus causing an increased risk of injury.
Download SIN 3444-S-25-Rev-0 (PDF English Version 303 Ko)
Vortex Ring State/ Airbus Helicopters training recommendations and considerations about the “Vuichard recovery technique”
Following a publication on how to escape a Vortex Ring State (VRS) with the “Vuichard recovery technique”, Airbus Helicopters believes it is important to explain our position regarding Airbus Helicopters global training philosophy related to VRS and the consequences of the different techniques.
Download SIN 3463-S-00-Rev-2 (PDF English Version 213 Ko)
Measures to be taken if the hoist jams in operation
The purpose of this revision 1 of this Safety Information Notice is to extend its effectivity to the cabin and cockpit crew.
Download SIN 3529-S-25-Rev-1 (PDF English Version 155 Ko)
Equipment and furnishings
Usage of data recorded in AIRS (Airborne Image Recorder System) "VISION 1000"
Download IN 3022-I-25-Rev-0 (PDF English Version 486 Ko)
Safety advices and tips for pilots returning post COVID-19
With this Safety Promotion Notice Airbus Helicopters would like to give some advices and tips for returning to General Aviation (GA) flying post the COVID-19 crisis.
Download SPN 3550-P-00-Rev-0 (PDF English Version 211Ko)
A helmet can save your life
This Safety Promotion Notice is a reminder on the recommendations from investigation bodies: wearing helmets significantly increases crew protection.
Download 3587-P-00-Rev-0 (PDF English Version 577 Ko)
AUTO FLIGHT
Use of 4-axis digital AFCS
Some best practices related to the AFCS use on aircraft equipped with a 4-axis digital autopilot, in addition to the FOBN publication.
Download SIN 3558-S-22-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 531Ko)
Bird Strike Risk Mitigation in Rotorcraft Operations
This document aims to raise awareness about the ESPN-R publication related to birdstrike risk mitigation strategies.
Download 3632-P-56-Rev-1 - (English Version 1.48Mo)
ESPN-R publication: Hoist operator training guide
Download 3626-P-00-Rev-0 - (English Version 2212Ko)
Intentional deviation from normal flight maneuvers
Download 3640-P-00-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 653 Ko)
Download 3640-P-00-Rev-0-FR - (French Version 646 Ko)
Choice of landing site
Download 3654-P-00-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 714 Ko)
Safety Information Notice: Potential interference of Radar-Altimeter (RA) by with wireless broadband operations (5G)
Download 3754-S-34-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 321 Ko)
Useful information about the Vortex Ring State (VRS) phenomenon
Download 3123-S-00-Rev-1-EN - (English Version 389 Ko)
Understanding the Importance of the Height-Velocity (H-V) curve
Download 3766-P-00-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 389 Ko)
What is Performance Based Navigation (PBN) - FAQ
Download 3799-P-22-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 1031 Ko)
Understanding and preventing Inadvertent Instrumental Meteorological
Conditions (I-IMC)
Download 3767-P-00-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 257 Ko)
Lessons learnt on Situation Awareness
Download 3862-P-00-Rev-0-EN - (English Version 458 Ko)
Download 3862-P-00-Rev-0-FR - (French Version 524 Ko)
Recommendations for work at height
The purpose of this Safety Promotion Notice is to better define and outline work at height practices to ensure that the risk from falling from one level to another is eliminated or minimised "as low as reasonably practicable" (ALARP).
Download SPN 3522-20-Rev-0 - (PDF 684 Ko)
Increasing number of serious incidents/accidents caused by failures to comply with "routine" applicable maintenance instructions
Airbus Helicopters has learned of several incidents and accidents, some of them serious, which have been caused by failures to comply with “routine” applicable maintenance procedures, in particular assembly procedures.
Download 2247-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 163Ko)
Airbus Helicopters has learned of several incidents and accidents, some of them serious, which have been caused by failures to comply with “routine” applicable maintenance procedures, in particular assembly procedures
Download 2928-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 531Ko)
Helicopter operating limitations
Through this Safety Information Notice, EUROCOPTER would like to remind you of the existence of operating limitations of EUROCOPTER helicopters.
Download SIN 2343-S-05-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 581Ko)
Modifications to the measures to be taken in the event of incidents
Airbus Helicopters has recently reviewed the conditions in which repairs on dynamic assemblies are authorized, in particular if an incident has occurred in operation.
Download SIN 3157-S-63-Rev-1 - (PDF English Version 248Ko)
Recommendations regarding portable Ground Power Units (GPU) containing Lithium Ion batteries
This Safety Information Notice (SIN) is to remind operators of the proper use of portable GPUs containing Lithium Ion batteries. Operators should also be aware of the dangers associated with the use, storage, and carriage of Portable GPUs containing Lithium batteries aboard aircraft.
Download SIN 3190-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 375Ko)
Safety risks associated with sales and use of unauthorized/counterfeit Airbus Helicopters parts and helicopters, all models
Revision 1 of this Safety Information Notice is issued following a new case of return to service of an aircraft after rebuilding without Airbus Helicopters’ approval. Therefore, Airbus Helicopters reminds customers of the safety risks related to the purchases and use of non-authorized or counterfeit Airbus Helicopters parts and/or helicopters.
Download SIN2152-S-00-Rev1 - (PDF English Version 557Ko)
Falsification of airworthiness documents and documents of conformity with the manufacturer data (New and repaired parts) - PART21 / PART145
EUROCOPTER regularly warns its operators against the use of suspect parts which may jeopardize flight safety and the safety of passengers and goods.
These suspect parts often come with falsified documents which may refer to the brand EUROCOPTER, but also to other manufacturers or companies working in the aircraft industry.
Download SIN 2451-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 567Ko)
Enhancing Aviation Safety with proper Maintenance procedures and a Human Factor analysis campaign
The goal of this Safety Promotion Notice is to promote best maintenance practices and organizational standards.
Download SPN 3344-P-00-Rev-1 - (PDF 855,59 Ko)
Hydraulic power system: servo transparency
Airbus Helicopters recently took part in investigations following events on the “servo transparency/servo reversibility” or “jack stall” phenomena. These events led Airbus Helicopters to remind you of the phenomenon described and explained in LS 1648-29-03 (for Ecureuil aircraft) or LS 1649-29-03 (for Colibri aircraft)."
Download LS-1648-29-03-Rev-0 - (PDF125Ko)
Download LS-1649-29-03-Rev-0 - (PDF 124Kb)
Download SIN3287-S-67-Rev-1 - (PDF 146Ko)
Hydraulic system failure emergency procedure training
EC120 B and AS350 B3e
Download SIN 3013-S-29-Rev-0 - (PDF 523Kb)
Helicopter with single hydraulic system - Hydraulic failure training
Reminder of the procedures and precautions specified in the Flight Manual concerning hydraulic failure training"
Download SIN2630-S-29-Rev-0 - (PDF 59Ko)
The analysis of various incidents and accidents that have occurred during the hydraulic failure training phases on helicopters equipped with a single hydraulic power system has shown that the majority of these incidents and accidents were the result of a loss of control at low speeds due to a lack of understanding or a lack of compliance with the training procedure described in Supplement 7 of the Flight Manual. To provide a practical tool for better understanding and comply with the hydraulic failure training procedure, Airbus Helicopters has created a training video. The procedure was filmed from the cockpit of an AS350 B3e. In addition to this video, Airbus Helicopters has introduced a questionnaire to check your understanding of the hydraulic failure training procedure.
Download SIN3246-S-29-Rev-1 - (PDF 337Ko)
Integration of a non-Airbus Helicopters Group design modification on helicopters, subject or not subject to an STC
Information concerning the potential effect on flight safety if a design modification, which does not originate from a member of the Eurocopter group and which is covered or not by a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), is embodied on a helicopter.
Download LS 1882-00-08-Rev-0 - (PDF 48Kb)
Jettisonable sliding doors
Design 1 (Disc spring):
Helicopter S/N 9004 up to and including S/N 9621 and pre-Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117 C-2-52A-018.
Watch to the tutorial
Design 2 (Coil spring):
Helicopter S/N 9622 and up or post Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117 C-2-52A-018.
Watch to the tutorial
Download ASB BK117 C-2-52A-018 (pdf 3.009Ko)
Download SIN 2658-S-52 (PDF 797 Ko)
Recommendations for visual inpections - Human factor approach
The purpose of this note is to better define and outline the concept of visual inspection to harmonize and standardize the knowledge and the know-how on this very recurrent maintenance action.
Download SPN3399-P-20-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 1142 Ko)
Electrical Power
Lithium Battery Safety in Personal Electronic Devices (PED)
Recommendations to operators
Download SPN 3433-P-24-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 290 Ko)
Fuel System
Recommendation on the usage of Kathon FP1.5 Biocide by DuPont
Download SIN 3543-28-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 844 Ko)
Theft of aeronautical equipment of EUROCOPTER or its customers' property
Complement to EUROCOPTER Safety Information Notice No. 2451-S-00 Revision 0, dated 2012-05-15
Airbus Helicopters informs you of a theft of parts during their transport to the customers and reminds you of the action to be taken when you find suspect parts.
Download SIN2497-S-00-Rev-1 - (PDF English Version 68Ko)
New Fuel Shut Off Lever design on cabin floor (MOD 075101)
Following an helicopter accident that ditched on the East River, the NTSB (U.S National Transport Safety Board) determines that the probable cause of this accident was the use of passenger harness/tether systems, which caught on and activated the engine Fuel Shut Off Lever (FSOL) and resulted in the in-flight loss of engine power and the subsequent ditching. Airbus Helicopters would like to inform his customers of the release of the Service Bulletin (SB) N° AS350-76.00.24.
Download SIN3570-S-76-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 73,1 Ko)
ESPN-R publication: Risk mitigation for Maintenance Check Flight
Airbus Helicopters would like to bring to the attention of the rotorcraft community the creation by the ESPN-R (European Safety Promotion Network - Rotorcraft) of tools to support decision making with regards to Maintenance Check Flights (MCF).
Download SPN 3705-P-00-Rev0 - (PDF English Version 250 Ko)
Simulated Engine-Off Landing (EOL) training
Current helicopter accident/incident statistics indicate that the greatest exposure to accidents or incidents occurs during simulated engine-off landing (EOL). The purpose of this Safety Information Notice is to raise the level of awareness of flight instructors involved in simulated EOL training.
Download SIN 2896-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF 521 Ko)
AS350, EC130B4 Crash Resistant Fuel System Retrofit Options and compliance with § 27.952
Download SIN3281-S-28-Rev-2 - (PDF English Version 609Ko)
EC120, AS350, AS355, EC130 Reminder for a Safe Departure
Airbus Helicopters is aware of several recent accidents that were due to failure to comply with the Flight Manual (FLM/AFM) procedures and/or due to disregard for basic airmanship and best practices necessary to ensure a safe take-off.
Download SIN 2992-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 527Ko)
AS350, EC130, Dauphin, EC120, AG Maintenance operations that can be carried out by an aircrew member - aircraft commander or flight engineer - under EASA regulations
Download LS 1919-00-08-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 36Ko)
AS350B3 Engine Controls Use of twist grip
FAR and JAR § 27.952 outline the latest requirements for Crash Resistant Fuel System (CRFS) applicable to newly certified helicopters. The requirements of § 27.952 are designed to increase the level of safety in the event of a survivable crash by either decreasing the likelihood or delaying the onset of post-crash fire. Features were added to minimize crash-induced fuel leaks and their contact with potential fuel ignition sources during and after the crash. They were also added to increase the time to egress before a post-crash fire became critical. Airbus Helicopters reminds you of the availability of § 27.952 compliant CRFS retrofit option for all variants of the AS350 (except BB version) and the EC130 B4. The aim of revision 2 of this SIN is to communicate on the availability of updated configurations and extended applicability of the Airbus Helicopters Crash Resistant Fuel System (AH CRFS).
Download IN2976-I-76-Rev-0 - (PDF english Version 1103Ko)
Rotor Flight Controls Dual Controls
Airbus Helicopters has been informed of a tragic event involving an aircraft in the Ecureuil range, which occurred following a “flight experience” type leisure flight, while the aircraft was on the ground with the rotor spinning.
Download SIN 3577-S-67-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 543Ko)
In line with our constant commitment to improving the safety of your operations, these new Ground Rescue Booklets for Airbus Helicopters products were developed in collaboration with operators and provide additional information on how to adapt Emergency Response Plans (ERP) within the scope of Safety Management Systems (SMS).
These documents cover generic configurations which may be different from the specific configurations of your helicopters. The booklets will initially be issued in English only and will not be subject to systematic updating. Dedicated versions will be prepared for other helicopters within the Airbus Helicopters range.
These booklets are made available free of charge on the Airbus Helicopters website in order to be used by firefighters and rescue teams around the world.
Download IN2145-I-28-Rev-4 - (PDF 499Ko)
Best practices for helicopters parked on the ground with spinning rotor
Airbus Helicopters recently took part in several investigations following incidents/accidents in which an aircraft took off with no action from the pilot while the aircraft was parked on the ground, with the rotor spinning at flight speed.
Download SIN3268-S-00-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 519Ko)
Dangers Associated with Operating a Helicopter on the Ground Without a Qualified Pilot at the Controls
This document updates the information provided in Service Letter 1788-62-06. This Service Letter was originally issued in 2006 after several accidents occurred when pilots left their aircraft operating on the ground, unattended, with the rotors turning.
Download SIN 2727-S-12-Rev-0 - (PDF English Version 63Ko)
SERVICING – Disinfection of the Helicopter Interior and the External handles
Download IN 3476-I-12-Rev-1 (PDF English Version)
Possible aviation fuel contamination by FAME or EMAG
Consequences of FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) (if any) in fuel.
Download SIN2478-S-00-REV-0 - (PDF English Version 82Ko)
Noise & downwash considerations for ground operators
Airbus Helicopters wants to provide its operators with information on the effects of downwash on the ground, to enable them to make a good infrastructure design and establish suitable ground operating procedures.
Download Safety Promotion Notice No. 3684-P-00 - (PDF English Version)
Foreign Object Damage prevention strategies
Download Safety Promotion Notice No. 3703-P-00 - (PDF English Version 432 Ko)
Collecting information regarding events that might involve potential safety issues is a key aspect of Airbus' effort to continuously improve the safety of its helicopters. This can only be achieved with the help of the aviation community through rapid, accurate and comprehensive information exchanges on events which might potentially affect fleet safety.
With this critical feedback, Airbus analyzes the events to define whether preventative and/or corrective measures are required. Quality and safety are core focuses for Airbus, and the company strongly encourages its customers to report any event considered as abnormal, as described in its “Occurrences Reporting” Information Notice:
- Safety Information Notice 3497 "Operational human factor risks linked to Covid-19"6.60 MB
- Safety Information Notice 2739-S-00 "Safety Information Notice"0.10 MB
- Safety Information Notice 2046-I-00 “Occurrences Reporting”0.12 MB
How to report a technical occurence
* Phone calls free for the following countries:
Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong-Kong, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Norway, People’s Republic of China, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, United Kingdom, United States.
Aid to introduction of a Safety Management System (SMS) - Operational risk management methodology provided by Airbus Helicopters
Download IN 2255-I-00-Rev-1 (PDF English Version 419Ko)
Download IN 2255-I-00-Rev-1 (PDF French Version 342Ko)
Download IN 2255-I-00-Rev-1 (PDF German Version 344Ko)
Download IN 2255-I-00-Rev-1 (PDF spanish Version 355Ko)
In-flight loss of a horizontal stabilizer due to prior damage
The purpose of Revision 1 of this Safety Information Notice is to inform about a new case of break of one side of a horizontal stabilizer, which occurred during landing.
Download SIN 2929-S-55-Rev-1 - (PDF English Version 419Ko)
Visit the website: T.I.P.I.
Never compromise Safety: reacting to pressure  | Download: EN: Download |
Aviation Safety: The Dirty Dozen  | Download: EN: Download |
Aviation Safety: Anticipate and prepare  | Download: EN: Download |
Never compromise safety: Your working environment
| Download: EN: Download |
Never compromise safety: Contributing to company safety objectives  | Download: EN: Download |
Never compromise safety: WRONG IS WRONG even if everyone is doing it  | Download: EN: Download |