FAA Drops Repetitive Paint Inspections on Airbus Helicopters
Published Date: 6/16/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or operate certain Airbus Helicopters, the FAA has updated safety rules starting July 21, 2026. They’re keeping most previous checks but dropping some repetitive paint mark inspections and adding new part installation limits to keep flights safe. These changes might save time and avoid extra inspections, but you’ll need to follow the new rules to keep your helicopter flying smoothly and safely.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
FAA Cost Estimates and Affected Fleet Size
The FAA estimates this AD affects 972 U.S.-registered helicopters. The estimated labor cost for each of the basic inspection actions is 1 work-hour x $85 = $85 per action. On-condition repair cost estimates include: TRH pitch change unit inspection 13 work-hours = $1,105; replacing bushes estimated $5,918 parts + $85 labor = $6,003; replacing a rotating plate estimated $27,375 parts + $85 labor = $27,460.
Parts Installation Limits for TRH Units
As of July 21, 2026, you may not install TRH pitch change unit P/N 350A33-2030-00, 350A33-2167-00, or 350A33-2167-01 on any helicopter unless you perform the inspections and marking required by paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (iv) of the AD before further flight after installation, and then perform the 10-hour alignment inspection thereafter.
Repetitive Paint‑Mark Inspections Removed
The AD removes the previous requirement for repetitive inspections of the 2–5 mm black paint index marking because updated airworthiness limitations (ALS) now include those repetitive checks. This AD still requires the initial marking and the 10‑hour follow-up alignment inspection.
50‑Hour Nut Installation Inspection
If your helicopter has a TRH pitch change unit P/N 350A33-2030-00, 350A33-2167-00, or 350A33-2167-01, you must inspect the pitch change spider nut for correct installation within 50 hours time-in-service after July 21, 2026. If the nut is missing or loose, you must remove the bearing and do corrosion, bush face, and rotating plate inspections and replace parts before further flight as required.
10‑Hour Paint Mark Alignment Check
After you mark the TRH pitch change unit and bearing spacer with a 2 to 5 mm wide black paint index mark, you must visually inspect the alignment of that marking within 10 hours time-in-service after the initial marking. If the mark is misaligned, you must inspect the TRH pitch change unit for corrosion and bush rotation/wear before further flight.
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