FAA Orders Helicopter Owners to Update Safety Manuals by 2026
Published Date: 9/30/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you own or work with Airbus Helicopters AS355 models, the FAA wants you to update your maintenance manuals with new safety rules. These changes make sure your helicopter stays safe by adding stricter checks and tasks. You’ve got until November 16, 2026, to share your thoughts, and while the updates might cost some time and money, they’re all about keeping flights safe and sound.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Required Component Replacements and Maintenance Tasks
You must comply with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2026-0103 (dated May 26, 2026) as incorporated by reference: replace components before they exceed life limits and accomplish all applicable maintenance tasks within the thresholds and intervals specified in the ALS. Revising the Aircraft Maintenance Programme (AMP) by incorporating those ALS items is the terminating action for recording those tasks, and after compliance you may not use alternative actions or intervals (including life limits) unless approved as specified in the EASA AD.
30‑Day Requirement to Revise Maintenance Manuals
If you own or operate an Airbus Helicopters Model AS355 (all AS355E/F/F1/F2/N/NP variants), you must revise the airworthiness limitations section (ALS) of the existing maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness and your approved maintenance or inspection program within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. The FAA estimates this paperwork/action will affect 60 U.S.-registered helicopters and cost about 1 work-hour ($85) per helicopter, total $5,100 across U.S. operators. Comments on the proposed rule are due November 16, 2026.
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