Helicopter Sticks Need Braid Check – Control at Risk!
Published Date: 11/28/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you fly or fix Airbus EC120B helicopters, listen up! The FAA wants you to check the pilot cyclic stick’s bonding braid because it might be in the wrong spot, making it hard to control the helicopter. You’ll need to inspect and fix it if needed, all to keep flights safe. Comments on this rule are open until January 12, 2026, so don’t wait to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
EC120B owners must inspect cyclic braid
If you operate or maintain an Airbus Helicopters EC120B, you must do a one-time inspection of the pilot cyclic stick bonding braid and, if needed, correct its position and install a binding clamp. The FAA estimates the rule would affect 72 U.S.-registered EC120B helicopters; the inspection is estimated at 1 work-hour ($85) per helicopter and any corrective action is estimated at 1 work-hour ($85).
FAA finds no significant small-entity impact
The FAA states this proposed airworthiness directive would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. The FAA also estimates the inspection work for U.S. operators totals $6,120 for 72 helicopters.
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