Airbus Helicopters Face Mandatory Metal Chip Checks
Published Date: 4/4/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly or fix certain Airbus Helicopters, listen up! The FAA now requires regular checks for tiny metal bits in the main gearbox to keep your chopper safe. You can’t install some gearboxes unless they meet new safety rules, so get ready to inspect often and stay on schedule to avoid costly fixes later.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Required Repetitive Gearbox Particle Checks
If you fly or maintain the listed Airbus Helicopters (models AS350B, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350BA, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, AS355NP, EC130B4, and EC130T2), the FAA now requires repetitive inspections of the main gearbox bevel wheel and the main gearbox magnetic plug to check for particles. These inspections are required by the FAA AD and follow the actions specified in the incorporated European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD.
Installation Ban on Affected Main Gearboxes
The FAA prohibits installing an affected main gearbox (MGB) on those same Airbus Helicopter models unless the MGB meets certain requirements specified in the incorporated EASA AD. Maintenance organizations and owners cannot install an affected MGB unless they follow the conditions set out in the referenced EASA AD.
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