H160 Helicopters Get Life Raft Leak Patch Mandate
Published Date: 4/6/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly an Airbus H160-B helicopter, listen up! The FAA found a leak risk in the emergency life raft system and now requires replacing the faulty container assembly by May 11, 2026. This fix keeps everyone safer and stops installing the old parts unless they meet strict rules—so get ready to update your gear and keep flying worry-free.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Fix Prevents Life Raft Release Failure
The AD addresses a reported leak in the ELRS gas cylinder caused by geometrical gaps between the burst disk and the valve body. If not corrected, the leakage could prevent life rafts from releasing during an emergency water landing and could result in injury to helicopter occupants.
H160-B ELRS Replacement Required
If you operate an Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B helicopter, the FAA requires replacing the emergency life raft system (ELRS) container assembly. This airworthiness directive is effective May 11, 2026, and directs operators to comply with the actions and compliance times specified in EASA AD 2025-0130R1.
Installation Ban on Affected ELRS Parts
The AD prohibits installing an affected ELRS container assembly on any helicopter unless certain requirements are met. The AD also allows sending affected ELRS container assemblies to a Safran Aerosystems repair facility or to an FAA-approved repair facility.
Special Flight Permits Restricted
Operators may be issued special flight permits under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199, but only if there are no flights over water. This lets affected helicopters move for maintenance while limiting over-water operation.
Estimated Compliance Costs for U.S. Fleets
The FAA estimates this AD affects nine U.S.-registered H160-B helicopters. The FAA estimates 2 work-hours at $85 per hour = $170 labor cost per helicopter and $1,530 total labor cost for U.S. operators; the FAA states there is no definitive data on the cost of the affected part or shipment.
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