Helicopter Gearboxes Get FAA's Latest Fix-It Order
Published Date: 12/8/2025
Rule
Summary
If you fly certain Airbus Helicopters (AS332 models), listen up! The FAA is updating safety rules to fix and improve parts on the main gearbox suspension bars by January 12, 2026. This means you’ll need to swap out old bolts and modify fittings to keep your chopper safe and flying—no more using outdated parts allowed. These changes help prevent problems and keep everyone safe, though they might cost some time and money to get done.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory MGB Suspension Bar Modifications
If you operate an Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, or AS332L1, you must modify the main gearbox (MGB) suspension bar link, install newly-designed MGB suspension bar fitting bolts, and you may not install certain older parts. These requirements are mandatory under the FAA AD effective January 12, 2026.
Estimated Compliance Costs Per Helicopter
The FAA estimates this AD affects eight U.S.-registered helicopters and provides per-helicopter cost estimates: determining hours TIS costs $43; replacing a right-hand rear fitting and four bolts costs $4,269 per replacement cycle; replacing left-hand rear fitting bolts costs $440 per cycle; replacing a left-hand rear fitting costs $4,487 per cycle; replacing a set of front fitting bolts costs $778 per cycle; and modifying both MGB suspension bars is estimated at $120,269 per helicopter (56 labor-hours plus $115,509 parts).
No Torque-Inspection Option Allowed
Unlike the related EASA rule, this FAA AD does not allow measuring tightening torque as an option instead of replacing the first right-hand rear MGB fitting. Operators must follow the FAA's required replacement procedures rather than using the torque-inspection alternative.
Limits on Using X3855 Drilling Kit
The AD prohibits using the X3855 frame drilling kit (part number X530P8102101) for the required modification actions if that kit shows cracks, corrosion, lengthening or deformation of rods or arms, or excessive wear. If such damage exists, the kit cannot be used for the AD work.
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