§29.610 Lightning and static electricity protection

(a) The rotorcraft structure must be protected against catastrophic effects from lightning. (b) For metallic components, compliance with sub-paragraph (a) may be shown by: (1) Electrically bonding the components properly to the airframe; or (2) Designing the components so that a strike will not endanger the rotorcraft. (c) For non-metallic components, compliance with sub-paragraph (a) may be shown by: (1) Designing the components to minimise the effect of a strike; or (2) Incorporating acceptable means of diverting the resulting electrical current to not endanger the rotorcraft. (d) The electrical bonding and protection against lightning and static electricity must: (1) Minimise the accumulation of electrostatic charge; (2) Minimise the risk of electrical shock to crew, passengers, and servicing and maintenance personnel using normal precautions; (3) Provide an electrical return path, under both normal and fault conditions, on rotorcraft having grounded electrical systems; and (4) Reduce to an acceptable level the effects of static electricity on the functioning of essential electrical and electronic equipment.