FAA to Helicopters: Fix That Leaky Cargo Hook Pronto
Published Date: 10/15/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to make sure all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters stay safe by fixing a cargo hook beam that might cause fuel leaks after an accident. They’re proposing changes to the hook and fuel system, plus adding extra strength to the structure. Helicopter owners need to act before November 30, 2026, or risk not meeting safety rules, which could cost time and money to fix later.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory CCHB and Fuel-System Modifications
If you own or operate an Airbus Helicopters Deutschland Model MBB-BK 117 D-2, you must modify the common cargo hook beam (CCHB), modify the fuel system, and install structural reinforcement in accordance with EASA AD 2025-0153. The FAA estimates per-helicopter parts-and-labor costs of $25,000 to modify the fuel system, $33,249 to install improved fuel pump cartridges, up to $229,920 to install a new CCHB, or up to $13,186 to retrofit a CCHB.
Operation Prohibited for Helicopters with Affected CCHB
As an alternative to performing the modification, operation of a helicopter with the affected CCHB part number L851M1301101 installed is prohibited per the incorporated EASA AD 2025-0153. That means helicopters with that part installed must either be modified or cannot be operated under this alternative.
FAA Cost Estimate: Affects 28 U.S. Helicopters
The FAA estimates this proposed AD would affect 28 U.S.-registered MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. The agency estimates total costs to U.S. operators of $700,000 to modify fuel systems (28 × $25,000), $930,972 to install improved fuel pump cartridges (28 × $33,249), up to $6,437,760 to install new CCHBs (28 × up to $229,920), and up to $369,208 to retrofit CCHBs (28 × up to $13,186).
Ban on Installing Specific CCHB Part Number
The rule prohibits installing the affected common cargo hook beam (CCHB) with part number L851M1301101 on any helicopter. This prohibition is part of the required actions tied to EASA AD 2025-0153 and is incorporated into the FAA proposal.
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