Airbus Helicopter Owners: Fix Those Tricky Escape Windows Now!
Published Date: 2/26/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you own an Airbus H160-B helicopter with a special window upgrade, the FAA wants you to check and fix some parts on the jettisonable windows because they might not work right. You’ll need to remove windows, inspect and replace parts if needed, and keep lubricating and testing the system regularly. Comments are open until April 13, 2026, and these fixes could cost time and money but keep everyone safe and flying smoothly.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Window Component Inspections
If you operate an Airbus H160-B helicopter modified by STC SR00223IB, the FAA would require removing the jettisonable windows to inspect and, if needed, replace locking fingers and any missing retaining rings. The rule is meant to prevent failure of the window jettison function and could require part replacement before the helicopter returns to service.
Repetitive Lubrication and Tests Required
The proposed AD would require repetitive lubrication of the locking fingers on the jettisonable windows and an operational (functional) test after each lubrication. The FAA estimates labor for lubrication at 2 work-hours ($170) and for the operational test at 2 work-hours ($170) per event per helicopter.
Scope and Estimated Compliance Costs
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect eight U.S.-registered H160-B helicopters modified by STC SR00223IB. The FAA's cost table lists examples: removing each jettisonable window estimated at 4 work-hours ($340 labor) and $340 parts per window (total $2,720 per helicopter line item), inspections and other line items with per-helicopter costs shown, and on-condition costs like up to $4,540 to replace locking fingers per kit.
Cover Replacement and Installation Restrictions
The FAA would require modifying helicopters by replacing the left- and right-hand emergency handle latch covers and would prohibit installing certain aesthetic cover part numbers (P/N 6A6H5600A002001XYZ) or certain electrochromic window P/Ns (6A6H5600A001001XYZ) unless specific requirements are met. Operators must follow the incorporated EASA and MAG procedures for those modifications and installation conditions.
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