Learn about our engineering process and how we provided a safe and straight-forward solution in just one weekend for one of our customers.
3 minute read.
AED Operational Rulemaking: How to Become Compliant with EASA
We all know the importance of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs.) In the case of cardiac arrhythmias, these portable electronic devices can provide a diagnosis, treatment and increase the chances of survival.
Not only is this important piece of equipment recognized more frequently in our daily lives, European airlines will also see these more and more in the sky. This is because in April 2021, EASA established an AED operational rulemaking (as explained in FAQ n. 19169.) The bottom line? All European operators must carry an AED “on board all aircraft equipped with a first-aid kit and required to carry at least one cabin crew.” For multi-deck aircraft, such as the Airbus A380 or Boeing 747, an AED may be needed on each deck.
Unlike an on board emergency medical kit, installing an AED requires an extra layer of approvals to ensure there is no interference with the overall aircraft avionics and flight operations. Having first provided this minor modification in 2009, we spoke to one of our modification experts, Bart van der Veldt, about our engineering process and how we provided a safe and straight-forward solution in just one weekend for one of our customers.
“Whenever we work with a new customer for this modification, we start by finding the best location for the AED. This depends on the aircraft type and where the flight attendant usually sits, which could be different for each operator. It’s about working together so we can provide a solution that works for the airline’s specific operations.
Once we agree on an ideal location, for example a luggage bin, that’s when we begin the all-important engineering checks. Particularly for older aircraft built during the 1970s, it’s possible that the AED could jeopardize different aircraft systems due to the magnetic shock that it produces. In addition to checking the various systems, we also closely analyze whether the AED is a good fit alongside the aircraft’s other electronic devices. This is because we need to guarantee all other devices continue to transmit electronic signals. We have conducted electro-magnetic interference analysis for a long time, for example with WiFi, Bluetooth and Radio Systems, and have plenty of experience to ensure aircraft operations will not be interrupted.
To wrap everything up, we then provide all the details and approvals needed for the modification. This includes the exact location for the AED as well as the installation kit and instructions. We have completed this entire process with a very fast turnaround time in the past. For example, an aircraft urgently needed to be released from the factory to the airline, but a last-minute AED mechanical relocation was needed. We quickly completed a certification of the relocation - on the Friday this challenge was brought to us, and by Monday we had delivered a new solution. With this first-hand experience, we are well equipped to support customers even if an urgent solution is needed.”
With our Engineering Bulletins and EASA DOA 21 statement, at Fokker Services we can quickly offer a range of certifications to best suit your needs. To find out more about how our experienced teams provide the engineering support to safely retrofit an AED in your Airbus, Boeing, De Havilland (Bombardier), Embraer, Fokker or Mitsubishi aircraft, contact us via the form below.