FAA Targets Loose Nuts in Airbus Helicopter Windows
Published Date: 11/20/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants all Airbus H160-B helicopter owners to fix a problem where some window parts can get loose by hand, which isn’t safe. They’re proposing a rule to update these windows and stop installing the faulty ones or doors. Comments are open until January 5, 2026, and owners should expect some costs to make these safety fixes.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Mandatory H160-B Window Modifications
If you own or operate an Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B, the FAA proposes you must modify any affected passenger window into a serviceable window and you may not install an affected window or affected door. The rule follows European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2024-0063 and is intended to prevent failure of the window jettisoning system that could stop evacuation in an emergency.
FAA Cost Estimate For Compliance
The FAA estimates the proposed AD would affect 12 U.S.-registered H160-B helicopters and modify 4 windows per helicopter. The FAA estimates 13 work-hours at $85 per hour (labor $1,105) plus parts $3,132, for a total cost per helicopter of $4,237 and a total cost on U.S. operators of $50,844; the manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty.
Special Flight Permit Restriction
The proposed AD allows special flight permits to move helicopters for compliance, but only if there are no flights over water. This lets operators ferry aircraft for work but restricts any such ferry flights from crossing water.
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