FAA Shortens Life of Cracked Helicopter Tail Rotor Bearings
Published Date: 3/13/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly Airbus Helicopters like the AS332 or SA330J models, listen up! The FAA found cracks in the tail rotor parts caused by worn-out bearings, so they’re shortening how long these parts can be used and requiring replacements sooner. Starting April 17, 2026, you can’t install old bearing stacks unless they meet new safety rules—keeping your chopper safe and sound without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Required Bearing-Stack Life Limits and Replacements
If you operate Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, or SA330J (certificated in any category), you must follow reduced life-limit intervals for the affected tail-rotor bearing stacks and replace those bearing stacks before they exceed the new intervals. Compliance is required in accordance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2024-0250 (dated December 20, 2024) as incorporated by reference, with this AD effective April 17, 2026.
Estimated Replacement Cost Per Helicopter
The FAA estimates replacing the bearing stack costs $680 in labor (8 work-hours × $85/hour) plus $920 in parts, for a total estimated cost per helicopter of $1,600. The FAA estimates this AD affects 10 U.S.-registered helicopters, with a total estimated cost on U.S. operators of $16,000; the manufacturer stated some costs may be covered under warranty.
Installation Prohibition for Affected Bearing Stacks
Starting April 17, 2026, you may not install the affected bearing stack on these Airbus Helicopters unless certain requirements specified in the AD and EASA AD 2024-0250 are met. The AD explicitly prohibits installation of the affected bearing stack unless those requirements are satisfied.
Special Flight Permits Prohibited
The AD expressly prohibits special flight permits for the affected helicopters. This means you may not operate these helicopters under a special flight permit to fly with the unsafe condition addressed by this AD after it is effective on April 17, 2026.
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