AW139 FIPS experience?

[Savoia]

Originally Posted by Arcal76

On a different subject, we won't be using the FIPS again this Winter. Still having problems with the slip ring. Buying an AW139 for CAT A performance and FIPS and then ending-up with no FIPS and doing "vertical CAT B" in summer - what a waste!

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Originally Posted by Savoia

FAA AD: DISCONNECT OF FIPS

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. This AD requires deactivating the Full Icing Protection System (FIPS) and installing a placard next to the FIPS controller stating that flight into known icing is prohibited. This AD is prompted by a report of a fire in the aft avionics bay and the baggage compartment resulting from an Auto Transformer Rectifier Unit internal circuit overload. These actions are intended to prevent a fire, structural damage, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

This AD becomes effective October 16, 2013

http://www.rotor.com/rotornews/Oct13/2013-15-01.pdf