Leonardo Helicopters: Inspect Those Rescue Hoist Cables Now
Published Date: 2/4/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly Leonardo helicopters like the A109 or AW139, listen up! The FAA found some rescue hoist cables might have a faulty part, so they’re requiring inspections and possible replacements starting February 19, 2025. This keeps everyone safe and follows European safety rules, with comments open until March 21, 2025. Fixing or swapping these cables might cost some money but it’s worth it for safe flights!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Inspection and Possible Hoist Replacement
If you operate Leonardo helicopters (Models A109E, A109K2, A109S, AB412, AB412 EP, AB139, or AW139), you must inspect certain rescue hoist cable assemblies and, if there is any gouging, replace the cable before the next rescue hoist operation. This requirement is effective February 19, 2025 and follows the actions in EASA AD 2024-0228.
Estimated Compliance Costs Per Helicopter
The FAA estimates inspecting a rescue hoist cable takes 2 work-hours at $85/hour ($170 per helicopter). If replacement is required, labor is 1 work-hour plus parts costing $10,218 for a total estimated cost of $10,303 per helicopter.
Fleet Size Affected — Up to 422 Helicopters
The FAA estimates this AD affects up to 422 U.S.-registered helicopters. The total estimated inspection cost for the U.S. fleet is up to $71,740.
Specific Hoists Identified by Manufacturer and Date
The AD specifically identifies affected rescue hoists as those listed in Table 2 of EASA AD 2024-0228 that were manufactured, repaired, or overhauled by Breeze-Eastern's main facility in Whippany, New Jersey before April 8, 2024, and any listed hoist if the date cannot be determined. Owners of helicopters with those hoists must follow the inspection and replacement rules.
Relief to Ferry for Maintenance and Possible Warranty Help
Special flight permits may be issued to fly a helicopter to a place where the AD work can be done as long as the rescue hoist is not used. The FAA also notes some costs may be covered under warranty, which could reduce the expense to operators.
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