Helicopter Pilots: Check That Stuck Control Stick Now!
Published Date: 3/3/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly an Airbus EC120B helicopter, listen up! The FAA found a problem where a part on the pilot’s control stick might be in the wrong spot, making it hard to move the stick fully. Starting April 7, 2026, owners must check this part and fix it if needed to keep flights safe—this is a one-time fix that helps avoid costly issues later.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
EC120B Pilot Stick Inspection Required
If you own or operate an Airbus Helicopters EC120B, you must do a one-time inspection of the bonding braid position on the pilot cyclic stick and, if needed, correct its position and install a binding clamp. The AD is effective April 7, 2026, applies to 72 U.S.-registered EC120B helicopters, and the FAA estimates the inspection takes 1 work-hour costing $85 per helicopter (total estimated cost to U.S. operators $6,120); any required repair is also estimated at 1 work-hour ($85). The AD was issued because incorrect braid positioning could limit full cyclic movement and could lead to loss of control in flight.
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.
2026-16803, Notice of Availability, Notice of Public Comment Period and Request for Comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment for Reditus Space ENOS Reentries in the Gulf of America
In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA) and FAA Order 1050.1G, FAA National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures, the FAA is announcing the availability of and requesting comment on the Draft Environmental Assessment for Reditus Space ENOS Reentries in the Gulf of America (Draft EA).
2026-16795, Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737 -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of nuisance stick shaker activation while accelerating to cruise speed at the top of a climb due to frozen angle of airflow (AOA) sensor vanes. This proposed AD would require installing new external case heaters (ECHs) on the left and right AOA sensors, performing repetitive functional tests and applicable corrective actions, and accomplishing applicable concurrent actions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
2026-16804, Establishment of Class E Airspace; Trading Bay Production Airport, Trading Bay, AK
This action proposes to establish Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Trading Bay Production Airport, Trading Bay, AK. This action would support the safety and management of instrument flight rules (IFR) operations at the airport.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-04164, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
If you fly or fix Airbus Helicopters AS332 models, listen up! The FAA found a risky part that can break and cause trouble, so they’re making you replace and upgrade some rotor parts by April 7, 2026. These changes keep your helicopter safe and stop bad breaks, but they might cost some time and money to get done right.
Next: 2026-04166, Freedom of Information Act
The Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board just updated its Freedom of Information Act rules to make it easier and faster for you to get info. Starting April 2, 2026, you can send FOIA requests by email or online, and simple requests will be handled quicker. These changes also reflect new laws and agency updates, with no extra fees if deadlines are missed.