FAA Cracks Down on Helicopter Safety Checks Again
Published Date: 5/13/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is updating safety rules for certain Leonardo helicopters, adding more models to the list and requiring regular checks for cracks in a key part. Pilots must keep inspecting until they install a new fix that stops the problem for good. These changes start June 17, 2026, and help keep everyone flying safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory Inspections Until Fix Installed
If you operate affected Leonardo helicopters (Model A109E and A109S), you must perform repetitive inspections of the intersection of the lateral pylon and floor spar at station (STA) 1815 for cracking until you install the required modification that stops the problem. The rule takes effect June 17, 2026, and the modification is described in EASA AD 2024-0004 and is terminating action for the repetitive inspections.
Estimated Inspection and Modification Costs
The FAA estimates an annual inspection cost of $1,394 per helicopter (about $510 per inspection cycle) until modification, or a one-time modification cost of $25,860 per helicopter ($12,930 per fuselage side). The FAA estimates the AD affects 81 U.S.-registered helicopters, with an aggregate annual inspection cost of $112,914 and an aggregate one-time modification cost of $2,094,660.
FAA RFA Finding on Small Entities
The FAA certified under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this AD will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The FAA estimates 39 entities affected, of which 28 are small entities (72%).
Special Flight Permits Prohibited
Special flight permits to operate affected helicopters under this AD are prohibited. Operators cannot rely on special flight permits to ferry helicopters for compliance or other purposes under this directive.
Manufacturer Warranty May Reduce Costs
The FAA notes that some costs of inspections or the one-time modification may be covered under warranty by the manufacturer, which could reduce the financial impact on affected operators. The FAA did not quantify warranty coverage.
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