FAA Orders Tail Rotor Checks on Airbus Choppers to Avoid Mid-Air Wobbles
Published Date: 9/30/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to keep certain Airbus Helicopters safe by checking and fixing parts that control the tail rotor, which could break and cause trouble. Owners of specific EC135 models will need to inspect parts now and regularly after, replacing or sealing them if needed. Comments are open until November 16, 2026, and these checks might cost some time and money but will keep flights safe and smooth.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory inspections and repairs for EC135 series
If you own or operate an AHD EC135 (serial numbers 0005 through 1276), you must perform a one-time inspection of the ball pivot, yaw actuator assembly, and related parts and then do repetitive inspections of the ball pivot. Depending on findings you must replace parts, do more inspections, and apply new sealing compound in accordance with EASA AD 2026-0024 as incorporated by reference. The FAA estimates 377 U.S. helicopters are affected, inspection labor is 2 work-hours at $85/hour = $170 per inspection, and the FAA estimates $64,090 total for one inspection across the U.S. fleet; on-condition replacements can cost up to $9,925 for some parts.
Ban on installing certain yaw actuator parts
The rule prohibits installing certain affected parts unless they are serviceable and meet specific requirements. Specifically it prohibits installing yaw actuator assembly P/N L672M2005107; dual yaw actuator assembly P/Ns L221M1047101, L221M1047102, L221M1047103, L221M1047104, L221M1047105, and L221M1047106; or certain control rods or ball pivots on any helicopter unless the AD's conditions are met.
No special flight permits allowed
The proposed AD states that special flight permits under 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 are not allowed. That means affected helicopters may not be flown under a special permit to a maintenance location for compliance with this AD.
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