Helicopter Life Rafts Busted in Shipping, FAA Says Fix
Published Date: 5/13/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own a Leonardo AB139 or AW139 helicopter, listen up! The FAA found some life raft inflation systems got damaged during shipping, which could be unsafe. Starting June 17, 2026, you must replace these parts and can’t install the old ones anymore—keeping your flights safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Must Replace Affected Life‑Raft Parts
If you operate a Leonardo Model AB139 or AW139 helicopter, you must replace certain life raft inflation systems (life raft inflation system P/N 202402A and P/N 202256A with the cylinder and valve serial numbers listed in Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 139-734, original issue dated April 13, 2023, or Revision A dated April 28, 2023) and you may not install an affected life raft inflation system on any helicopter. This rule is effective June 17, 2026, and is intended to prevent inability to inflate a life raft during a ditching over water.
FAA Cost Estimate for Compliance
The FAA estimates this AD affects 161 U.S.-registered helicopters. The estimated cost per helicopter is $9,250 (4 work-hours at $85/hour = $340 labor plus $8,910 parts), for a total estimated cost to U.S. operators of $1,489,250; the manufacturer has indicated some costs may be covered.
Limited Special Flight Permits Allowed
Special flight permits may be issued under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate affected helicopters, but only if there are no flights over water. This lets operators reposition aircraft for maintenance while still restricting over-water operations.
No Reporting or Return Requirement
Although the referenced EASA AD asks operators to submit information and return parts to the manufacturer, this FAA AD does not require reporting or returning parts. Operators must still perform the replacements, but they have no FAA-mandated reporting or parts-return obligation under this AD.
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Key Dates
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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.
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