Choppers get titanium firewalls to dodge engine fires.
Published Date: 3/7/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters like the EC155 or AS365 models, listen up! The FAA says you must swap out the aluminum firewall stiffener in the engine compartment for a tougher titanium one to stop fire risks. This rule kicks in April 11, 2025, so get ready to upgrade and keep your chopper safe and sound.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory firewall stiffener replacement
If you operate or maintain Airbus Helicopters Model EC155B, EC155B1, SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, or AS 365 N3, you must replace the aluminum central firewall stiffener in the engine compartment with a titanium stiffener and you may not install an aluminum stiffener. This AD is effective April 11, 2025, and the FAA estimates the job takes 7 work-hours at $85/hour plus parts costing $1,737 to $2,801, for a total estimated cost of $2,332 to $3,396 per helicopter and $81,620 to $118,860 for the 35 U.S.-registered helicopters affected.
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