2026-17840Proposed RuleWallet

FAA demands Airbus helicopter fan gap checks and part swaps now

Published Date: 9/1/2026

Proposed Rule

Summary

If you fly Airbus Helicopters Model SA330J, the FAA wants you to keep checking the main gearbox fan for gaps and replace parts if needed. They’re giving you more time to install a better fan bearing assembly that stops these checks. You can’t install certain parts unless they meet new rules, so keep an eye on deadlines to stay safe and legal!

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 1 mixed.

Improved bearing assembly installation extended

The AD requires replacing the MGB fan rotor bearing assembly with an improved assembly, which stops the need for repetitive inspections, but the FAA is increasing (extending) the compliance time to install that improved assembly due to parts availability. The FAA estimates the modification (install improved assembly) labor at 8 work‑hours (8 x $85 = $680) and parts up to $17,521, for a total up to $18,201 per helicopter.

Mandatory repetitive MGB fan inspections

If you operate an Airbus Helicopters Model SA330J, you must keep doing repetitive inspections for a gap (play) between the main gearbox (MGB) oil cooling fan rotor blade and the upper section of the guide vane bearing housing. The FAA estimates each inspection requires 2 work‑hours at $85/hour and lists an estimated cost per helicopter of $510; the proposed AD would affect 3 U.S. registered helicopters.

Required bearing replacement when inspection fails

If an inspection finds play that does not meet the minimum requirement, you must replace the affected MGB fan rotor bearings (both rear and front). The FAA estimates on-condition replacement labor at 6 work‑hours (6 x $85 = $510) and parts up to $1,938 for both bearings, for a total up to $2,448 per helicopter.

Prohibition on installing non-serviceable bearings

The proposed AD prohibits installing any MGB fan rotor bearings unless they are serviceable bearings and prohibits installing any MGB fan bearing assembly unless it is the improved assembly described in EASA AD 2022-0191R1 (dated December 9, 2025).

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Key Dates

Published Date
Comments Due
9/1/2026
10/16/2026

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
Agency
Transportation Department
Federal Aviation Administration
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