Airbus Chopper Bolt Swap: FAA's Standard Safety Swap
Published Date: 5/23/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you fly certain Airbus helicopters, the FAA wants you to upgrade some key parts in the main gearbox to keep things safe. They’re asking for a new fix that includes swapping out bolts and modifying a suspension bar link, plus stopping the use of some old parts. This update means you’ll need to act soon to avoid safety risks and keep your helicopter flying smoothly.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Required Main Gearbox Link Modification
If you operate an Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, or AS332L1, the FAA proposes a rule that would require you to modify the main gearbox (MGB) suspension bar link and install newly designed MGB suspension bar fitting bolts. This proposed directive would supersede AD 2020-06-13 and applies specifically to those four helicopter models.
Ban on Installing Certain Legacy Parts
The FAA proposes to prohibit installing certain older MGB suspension bar fittings and bolts on Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1. Operators of those helicopter models would need to stop using the prohibited parts and use the newly specified parts instead.
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