Leonardo Helicopters Get Clamp-Down Order from FAA Safety Cops
Published Date: 10/1/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly Leonardo AB139 or AW139 helicopters, listen up! The FAA found a clamp that might come loose and cause trouble near the tail rotor. Starting October 16, 2026, you’ll need to check these clamps regularly and replace any that aren’t safe. Don’t install certain clamps unless they meet new safety rules. This keeps your helicopter flying safe without breaking the bank.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory inspections, replacements, and installation ban
If you operate Leonardo Model AB139 or AW139 helicopters, you must follow the inspection and replacement actions in EASA AD 2026-0165 starting October 16, 2026. The AD requires repetitive detailed inspections of the nozzle exhaust duct clamp assemblies and replacement of parts if damaged, and it prohibits installing an affected clamp assembly unless specified requirements are met. The FAA estimates the inspection labor cost is $170 per helicopter, that the AD affects 57 U.S.-registered helicopters (total inspection cost $9,690), and that replacing a damaged clamp assembly would cost about $2,909 per assembly (labor $170 plus parts $2,739).
Quick 25-hour inspection deadline
The FAA requires the affected clamp parts to be inspected within 25 hours time-in-service after the AD's effective date of October 16, 2026. That 25-hour compliance time is mandatory and begins from October 16, 2026.
No mandatory reporting or part returns
Although the EASA AD and referenced material call for submitting information and returning parts to the manufacturer, this FAA AD explicitly does not require submitting reports or returning parts. Operators do not have to perform those specific reporting or return actions under this AD.
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