Title: EASA SIB 2025-04 – Use of Protective Breathing Equipment
Date of Issue: 28 May 2025
Applicability: CAT & NCC
Summary of Change
EASA has released SIB 2025-04 to address concerns about the correct use of Protective Breathing Equipment (PBE) by cabin crew during fire, smoke, and fume-related incidents. The bulletin clarifies operational limitations and emphasizes crew training on safe usage.
Impact on Operators
- Clarify that PBEs are not substitutes for oxygen masks or medical oxygen systems
- Provide specific use-cases in the OM for PBE deployment (e.g. firefighting, smoke localization, DG incidents)
- Ensure crews know when and how to remove the PBE, especially post-event or post-oxygen exhaustion
- Educate crew on the risks of extended use or improper removal
- Include procedures for single cabin crew operations and diverse PBE models across fleet types
Affected Manuals
- Operations Manual Part A & B – PBE use, model-specific instructions, limitations
- Operations Manual Part D – Hands-on procedures, activation, use, communication while using PBE
TRS Recommendation
TRS recommends immediate integration of these updates into training programs and operational manuals. Use of realistic “training PBEs” is encouraged to simulate true in-flight conditions and limitations.
Official Reference
EASA SIB 2025-04