Rusty Bolts Force Inspections on Polish-Made Army Helicopters
Published Date: 1/22/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or fly a PZL-Swidnik W-3A helicopter, listen up! The FAA found rust on some main rotor blade bolts and now requires regular checks, repairs, or replacements to keep things safe. These rules kick in February 6, 2026, so get ready to inspect, report, and keep your chopper flying smoothly without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory MRB Bolt Inspections and Repairs
If you own or operate a PZL W-3A helicopter, you must remove, clean, and inspect each main rotor blade (MRB) attachment bolt P/N 37.21.000.50.00 within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 3 months, whichever comes first, after February 6, 2026. If defects are found you must repair bolts within repairable limits or remove and replace bolts before further flight, and then repeat inspections at either every 300 hours TIS or 12 months (in some cases) or every 25 hours TIS or 6 months as specified in the AD's inspection table.
Mandatory Inspection Reporting to Manufacturer
After each inspection you must report the inspection results to PZL-Swidnik S.A. within 30 days. The rule estimates public reporting will take about 1 hour per response (OMB Control Number 2120-0056).
Prohibition on Installing Uninspected Bolts
As of February 6, 2026, you may not install MRB attachment bolt P/N 37.21.000.50.00 on any helicopter unless that bolt has been inspected in accordance with this AD. This limits use of that part until it has passed the required inspection or repair process.
No U.S. Compliance Costs Today
The FAA states there are no costs of compliance with this AD because there are currently no PZL W-3A helicopters on the U.S. Registry. That means no immediate compliance spending is expected from U.S. operators right now.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight
The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.
2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period
The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.
2026-08943, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2026-15047, Establishment of Class E Airspace; Ottawa, IL
The FAA wants to create new Class E airspace around the OSF St Francis Medical Center Heliport in Ottawa, Illinois, to help pilots fly safely using instruments. This change mainly affects pilots flying in and out of this heliport and supports better flight rules. Comments on this plan are open until September 8, 2026, and there’s no cost to the public.
2026-15004, Airworthiness Directives; Stemme GmbH Gliders
If you own a Stemme TSA-M Model S6-RT or S 12 glider, listen up! The FAA found some fuel pumps that might leak and wants you to check yours ASAP. If your pump has the wrong parts, you’ll need to swap them out with approved ones by July 24, 2026, to keep flying safe and sound—no surprise costs mentioned, just peace of mind.
2026-14974, Request for Comments on Midway Atoll Airport/Henderson Airfield (MDY)
The FAA wants your thoughts on the future of Midway Atoll Airport, a key stopover for flights crossing the Pacific Ocean. The airport’s runway and facilities are wearing out and need big repairs within 3 to 5 years to keep planes flying safely. If it closes, it could shake up trans-Pacific flights, so the FAA is asking for comments by September 8, 2026.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-01180, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters
If you own or fly Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH EC135 models, listen up! The FAA found some tail rotor parts might be cracked or bent, so they’re requiring inspections and fixes starting February 26, 2026. You can’t install certain parts unless you follow new safety steps, helping keep everyone flying safe without surprise costs if you act on time.
Next: 2026-01183, Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters
If you fly a Leonardo AB412 or AB412 EP helicopter, listen up! The FAA found a crack in a key part called the left upper cap angle and now requires regular checks to keep things safe. Starting February 6, 2026, owners must inspect and fix any problems quickly—so no surprises or costly repairs down the line!