Airbus Choppers Face Mandatory Switchover for Safety
Published Date: 3/7/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA is making new rules for certain Airbus helicopters because some emergency fuel shut-off switches might not work right. Owners need to check these switches soon and fix or replace them if needed. This keeps everyone safer and follows important European safety guidelines, with no big costs expected if you act on time.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Repair or replace warning units
If the required inspection shows a problem, you must repair or replace the warning unit that contains the emergency fuel shut-off switches. The AD makes replacing or repairing the warning unit mandatory depending on inspection results.
Mandatory switch inspections for models
If you own or operate any Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+/EC635T2+, EC135T3, MBB-BK 117 C-2, MBB-BK 117 D-2, or MBB-BK 117 D-3 helicopter, you must inspect certain emergency fuel shut-off switches on the warning unit. The rule requires those inspections as the first action to address reported malfunctions.
Allowed installation of certain units
The AD allows installing certain warning units if those units meet the specified requirements in the referenced European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD. This gives owners/operators an approved option to return the helicopter to service if the installed units comply with the AD's conditions.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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