FAA Orders Inspections for Airbus Helicopter Rotor Blades
Published Date: 1/2/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G or SA342J, listen up! The FAA found some main rotor blades might have a safety problem and now requires regular tap inspections to catch any issues early. Starting February 6, 2026, you’ll need to inspect, repair, or replace these blades to keep flying safe—so plan for some extra checks and possible costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Repair or replace damaged rotor blades
If a tap inspection finds disbonding on the affected main rotor blade, you must repair or replace the blade. The FAA estimates repair costs at 1 work-hour plus $17,500 in parts for an estimated $17,585 per blade.
Mandatory recurring tap inspections
If you operate an Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G or SA342J, you must begin repetitively tap inspecting certain main rotor blades for disbonding starting February 6, 2026. The FAA estimates each tap inspection takes 1 work-hour at $85 per hour, costing $85 per helicopter and $5,355 for the U.S. fleet of 63 helicopters per inspection cycle.
Restriction on installing affected blades
The AD prohibits installing the affected main rotor blades (certain part-numbered MRBs) unless specified requirements are met, effective February 6, 2026. The AD incorporates and requires following EASA AD 2023-0155 procedures except for specified exceptions.
Alternative compliance (AMOC) option available
Operators may request an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) from the Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, using the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Before using any approved AMOC, operators must notify their principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office.
No manufacturer reporting required
Although EASA AD 2023-0155 specifies submitting certain information to the manufacturer, this FAA AD explicitly does not include that reporting requirement. This change removes the obligation to provide those manufacturer reports under this AD.
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