Helicopter Parts Wearing Out? FAA Orders Urgent Inspections Now
Published Date: 12/8/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters Deutschland’s MBB-BK 117 C-2 or D-2 models, listen up! Starting January 12, 2026, you’ll need to check certain bearings for wear, report what you find, and fix any problems. This keeps the helicopters safe and stops worn parts from causing trouble, so plan for some inspections and possible repairs soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory bearing measurements within 100 hours
If you operate or maintain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 or D-2 helicopters, you must measure the radial play of the two spherical bearings of each affected control rod and pitch link within 100 hours time-in-service after January 12, 2026. The AD requires following the Airbus/EASA service instructions incorporated by reference when taking these measurements.
Parts installation blocked unless bearings ≤ 0.10 mm
As of January 12, 2026, you may not install an affected control rod or pitch link assembly on any helicopter unless you measure the radial play of the part's two spherical bearings and confirm each bearing's radial play is equal to or less than 0.10 mm. This installation limitation is mandatory under the AD.
Estimated compliance costs and fleet size
The FAA estimates the AD affects 180 U.S.-registered helicopters. Measuring radial play and reporting takes about 2 work-hours per helicopter (estimated labor $85/hour) for a per-helicopter cost of $170, and replacing a control rod or pitch link assembly (if required) is estimated at 1 work-hour plus $1,650 parts for a total of $1,735 per replacement.
Mandatory reporting of measurement results
You must report the measurement results to Airbus Helicopters (per the incorporated EASA AD) within 30 days after the measurement if done on or after January 12, 2026; if measured before that date, submit the report within 30 days after January 12, 2026. The paperwork burden is estimated at about 1 hour per response (OMB Control Number 2120-0056) and all responses are mandatory.
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