Helicopter Doors Keep Falling Off During Flight, FAA Finally Notices
Published Date: 1/17/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to keep Airbus Helicopters safe by fixing a problem where sliding doors could fly open during flight. They’re proposing to update certain door parts, add warning labels, and stop using some old parts. Helicopter owners need to comment by March 3, 2025, and get ready for these changes that help avoid costly accidents.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Fixes sliding door detachment risk
The FAA proposes an airworthiness directive for Airbus Helicopters Model AS350 and AS355 series to stop sliding doors from detaching in flight by requiring modification of affected upper rail rollers, installing a label on each sliding door, and prohibiting installation of affected rollers or doors. The change responds to a reported incident and is intended to prevent door loss, helicopter damage, and injury to persons on the ground.
Up to $3,348 compliance cost per helicopter
The FAA estimates the required modification and label installation takes up to 8 work-hours at $85 per hour and parts cost $2,668, for a total cost of up to $3,348 per helicopter. The FAA estimates 972 U.S.-registered helicopters are affected for a fleet cost of $3,254,256, though the manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty for some operators.
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