FAA Orders One-Time Helicopter Part Check for Safety
Published Date: 6/4/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly an Airbus Helicopters Deutschland MBB-BK 117 D-3, listen up! The FAA found a problem with a part that can cause shaky flights, so they’re requiring a one-time check and fixes if needed. This rule kicks in July 9, 2026, and stops unsafe parts from being used again—keeping your ride smooth and safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Estimated compliance costs per helicopter
The FAA estimates the AD affects 55 U.S.-registered helicopters. A required swashplate inspection is estimated at 4 work-hours costing $340 per helicopter, and if all on-condition work is needed, costs could be up to $9,420 per helicopter.
Installation of affected swashplates prohibited
The AD prohibits installing an affected swashplate on a helicopter unless the swashplate is inspected and any corrective actions are completed per the AD requirements. This prohibition is effective July 9, 2026.
One-time swashplate inspection required
If you operate an Airbus Helicopters Deutschland Model MBB-BK 117 D-3, you must do a one-time inspection of swashplates with part number D623M2050102 and serial numbers up to 0487 inclusive. This inspection and any corrective actions must follow EASA AD 2025-0029 and the FAA AD, and the rule is effective July 9, 2026.
Special flight permits not allowed
The AD explicitly prohibits special flight permits for affected helicopters. That means you may not fly an affected helicopter under a special permit to relocate it for maintenance after July 9, 2026.
Small-entity economic effects limited
The FAA found the AD affects 21 U.S. entities, including 6 small entities, and in the high-case the AD's cost is no more than 1.88 percent of any small entity's annual revenue. The FAA certified the AD will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
No reporting required to manufacturer
Although the related EASA AD asked operators to report inspection results to the manufacturer, this FAA AD does not require submitting any inspection reports. The AD states there is no reporting requirement.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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If you fly an Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B with a special window system, this new rule kicks in July 9, 2026. You’ll need to remove and inspect the jettisonable windows, fix or replace parts if needed, and keep lubricating and testing the system regularly. These steps keep your helicopter safe and stop certain window covers from being installed unless they meet new rules—so plan for some maintenance time and possible costs.
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If you fly an Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B, listen up! The FAA says you need to test the emergency beacon batteries and check the ropes connecting them to the life-raft system to keep everyone safe. Starting July 9, 2026, you’ll have to fix or replace parts if tests fail, and you can’t install certain parts unless they meet new rules—so plan for some quick checks and possible costs.