Helicopter Owners: Fix That Rotor Before It Drops
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you fly Airbus Helicopters models AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, or AS332L2, listen up! The FAA wants you to replace and upgrade parts in the main rotor to stop a dangerous part from breaking. You’ll need to act before January 12, 2026, or risk safety issues—and yes, there might be some costs involved to keep your chopper flying safe and sound.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory main-rotor part replacements
This proposed AD applies to Airbus Helicopters models AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2 and would require replacing the rotor shaft assembly, modifying the rotating swashplate assembly (replacing each of the three ball joint-cups assemblies with one-piece self-lubricated spherical bearings), and modifying scissors hinges and swashplate trunnions as applicable. The FAA says the rule addresses a seized ball joint-cups assembly that caused scissors link rupture and possible loss of control. The FAA estimates the rule would affect 12 U.S.-registered helicopters.
FAA cost estimates for required work
The FAA provides cost estimates for two required actions: replacing three ball joint-cups assemblies is estimated at 3 work-hours (3 x $85 = $255) plus $9,861 in parts for a total cost per helicopter of $10,116, and the FAA estimates the U.S. fleet cost for that action at $121,392. Applying an anti-corrosion agent is estimated at 3 work-hours (3 x $85 = $255) per helicopter with parts cost $0, and the FAA estimates the U.S. fleet cost for that action at up to $3,060. The FAA also states it has no definitive data to estimate costs for replacing the rotor shaft assembly with certain modifications or for some modification options, and the manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty.
Special flight permits prohibited
The proposed AD explicitly prohibits special flight permits for affected helicopters. That means operators may not be allowed to fly the helicopter under a special flight permit to conduct flights that would otherwise be restricted while the unsafe condition exists.
Limits on installing MRH/rotor shaft parts
The proposed AD would prohibit installing a main rotor hub (MRH) assembly or a rotor shaft assembly on a helicopter unless certain requirements are met (the FAA references that EASA AD 2025-0116 prohibits installation unless it is a post-mod 0728849 configuration). Operators and maintenance providers must ensure installed MRH/rotor shaft assemblies meet the specified post-mod configuration requirements before installation.
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Key Dates
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