Helicopter Owners: Check Those Cracked Tails Before Takeoff
Published Date: 4/6/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters AS355 models, listen up! The FAA found cracks in the tail fin’s vertical spar and now requires regular checks and fixes to keep things safe. Starting May 11, 2026, you can’t install certain fin parts anymore, so plan ahead to avoid surprises or extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Ban on Installing Certain Upper Fin Assemblies
Starting May 11, 2026, the AD prohibits installing certain upper fin assemblies on AS355 helicopters. The AD notes that installing upper fin assembly P/N 355A14-0522-1751 is the terminating action for the repetitive inspections, while other unspecified assemblies are prohibited.
Estimated Compliance Costs and Fleet Impact
The FAA estimates the AD affects 177 U.S.-registered AS355 helicopters and uses a labor rate of $85/hour. Estimated costs: initial cleaning and inspection 2.5 work-hours = $213 per helicopter ($37,701 fleet); repetitive borescope inspection 0.5 work-hour = $43 per helicopter (up to $7,611 fleet per cycle) or repeating the 2.5-hour inspection = $213 per helicopter (up to $37,701 fleet per cycle); full replacement and installation of upper fin P/N 355A14-0522-1751 takes 40 work-hours plus $25,360 parts = $28,760 per helicopter. The FAA also notes the manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty.
Required Repetitive Fin Spar Inspections
If you own or operate Airbus Helicopters Model AS355 series, the FAA requires repetitive inspections of certain vertical upper fin spars and corrective action when cracks are found. These inspection rules come from EASA AD 2023-0154R1 and are mandatory under this AD effective May 11, 2026.
Special Flight Permits Prohibited
The AD explicitly prohibits special flight permits for affected AS355 helicopters. Operators cannot rely on special flight permits to move helicopters subject to this AD, effective May 11, 2026.
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