Helicopters Grounded? FAA Fixes Wrong Tail Cone Sticker
Published Date: 9/17/2026
Rule
Summary
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports that the identification plate affixed to certain tail cone assemblies contains an incorrect part number (P/N), which may not accurately convey the life limit. This AD requires verifying the tail cone assembly part number and, if necessary, replacing the incorrect tail cone assembly identification plate with a new tail cone assembly identification plate containing the correct P/N and updating the existing log book or equivalent record for the helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Action Prevents Possible Loss of Control
The AD says incorrect tail cone identification plates could cause a tail cone to be treated as having unlimited life, which might lead to fatigue cracking of the tailboom and loss of control. By requiring verification and, if needed, replacement of the plate and record updates, the AD addresses that unsafe condition.
Must Verify Tail Cone Part Number
If you operate a Bell Model 505 helicopter, you must verify the tail cone assembly part number because some identification plates show the wrong P/N (including P/N SLS-030-600-007 and P/N SLS-030-600-009). This AD is effective October 22, 2026, and requires replacing an incorrect identification plate with a correct plate and updating the helicopter's existing log book or equivalent record.
FAA Estimates Costs and Safety Risk
The FAA estimates this AD affects 182 U.S.-registered Bell 505 helicopters and that verifying the tail cone P/N will cost $85 per helicopter (total estimated $15,470 for U.S. operators). If replacement is required, the FAA estimates on-condition costs of about $175 for the replacement plate and $85 to update the log book; some costs may be covered under warranty.
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