FAA Orders Crack Checks on Leonardo Helicopters
Published Date: 5/21/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly Leonardo AB139, AW139, or AW189 helicopters, listen up! The FAA found cracks in some brake parts and now requires regular checks and fixes to keep you safe. Starting June 25, 2026, these inspections are a must, and some parts can’t be installed unless they meet new rules—so plan for a bit of extra maintenance time and cost.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Replacement and other on-condition costs
If an inspection finds cracking, replacing a tube or shaft assembly costs an estimated $3,466 per assembly (1 work-hour at $85 plus $3,381 parts). Other on-condition tasks include manufacturing/installing a placard ($85) and revising the rotorcraft flight manual ($85); repetitive follow-up inspections are estimated at $170 each. The manufacturer may cover some costs under warranty.
Mandatory repetitive brake inspections
If you operate a Leonardo Model AB139, AW139, or AW189 helicopter, you must start repetitive inspections of the left- and right-hand brake pedal tube assemblies (AB139/AW139) or pedal shaft assemblies (AW189) per EASA AD 2025-0163 starting June 25, 2026. The FAA estimates each inspection takes 2 work-hours (at $85/hour) and costs $170 per helicopter; the FAA estimates 153 U.S.-registered helicopters are affected and the total initial inspection cost is $26,010.
Prohibited installation of certain parts
Starting June 25, 2026, the AD prohibits installing certain affected tube or pedal-shaft parts on any Leonardo AB139, AW139, or AW189 helicopter unless specified requirements in EASA AD 2025-0163 are met. That restriction may limit the parts you can fit during maintenance or require a serviceable alternative before installation.
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