Airbus Helicopter Cargo Hooks Could Drop Loads Without Pilot Permission
Published Date: 10/27/2026
Rule
Summary
If you own or operate Airbus Helicopters AS350B2, AS350B3, AS355N, AS355NP, or EC130B4 models, listen up! The FAA found a safety issue where the cargo hook might drop its load without the pilot asking it to. Starting November 12, 2026, you’ll need to inspect the load dropping controls and manual release lever, fixing any problems to keep flying safe. Comments on this rule are open until December 11, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory cargo-hook inspections and fixes
If you own or operate Airbus Helicopters AS350B2, AS350B3, AS355N, AS355NP, or EC130B4, you must inspect the load-dropping control system and inspect the manual release lever, and do any corrective actions required. This AD is effective November 12, 2026, and the inspections must be done within 50 sling cycles or within 30 days, whichever occurs first, after that effective date.
FAA cost estimates for inspections and repairs
The FAA estimates this AD affects 1,134 U.S.-registered helicopters. The FAA estimates one-time inspection labor at 1 work-hour costing $85 per helicopter (aggregate $96,390), repetitive manual-release inspections at $85 per inspection per helicopter (aggregate $96,390 per inspection), on-condition inspection/adjustment cost $170, and replacing and adjusting the dropping control cost $1,285 (parts $1,200 plus $85 labor).
Authorized personnel must perform inspections
Where EASA allowed a suitably authorized pilot to do the free-play check, this FAA AD requires that those inspections be done by persons authorized under 14 CFR 43.3. That means the check for free play and related inspections must be performed by authorized maintenance personnel rather than by the pilot-owner/operator.
No manufacturer reporting required
Although the incorporated EASA material specifies submitting certain information to the manufacturer, this FAA AD does not include any reporting requirement to the manufacturer. You are not required by this AD to send inspection or repair data to the manufacturer.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-15585, Requirements for Interference-Tolerant Radio Altimeter Systems
In July 2025, President Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Section 40002 of that law re-institutes the Federal Communications Commission's general auction authority and specifically directs the Commission to complete a system of competitive bidding for not less than 100 megahertz in the 3.98-4.2 gigahertz band (Upper C- band). This final rule supports the Federal Communications Commission's July 2026 Report and Order that makes 160 megahertz of the Upper C-band available for terrestrial wireless flexible use via a system of competitive bidding. To ensure safe, efficient, and reliable aviation operations in the presence of wireless signals in the C-band, the Federal Aviation Administration is issuing new regulations that require all radio altimeters to meet specific minimum performance requirements. These new radio altimeters must withstand interference from wireless signals in neighboring spectrum bands and continue to provide accurate altitude readings to both pilots and integrated aircraft safety systems. These regulations require all aircraft equipped with radio altimeters operating under part 121 and those aircraft with radio altimeters operating under part 129 with 30 or more passenger seats or a payload capacity of more than 7,500 pounds to comply with the minimum performance requirements by December 30, 2030, which is prior to the date the Federal Communications Commission authorizes the use of the Upper C-band for new wireless services, as stated in its Report and Order. All other aircraft equipped with radio altimeters that are required to comply with part 91, including aircraft operating under parts 125, 133, 135, 136, 137, 194, and all other aircraft operating under part 129 that are not subject to the initial deadline, must comply with the same minimum performance requirements on or before October 31, 2034.
2026-13440, Enabling Supersonic Overland Flight
The FAA wants to let supersonic planes fly over land again by updating old rules that banned them because of loud sonic booms. Thanks to new tech that keeps booms quiet, this change will open the door for faster, cooler flights across the U.S., helping America lead the world in supersonic travel. People and companies interested in supersonic flight should share their thoughts by August 17, 2026.
2026-13126, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility; Extension of Comment Period
The FAA is giving more time—until August 5, 2026—for people to share their thoughts on new rules that would limit drone flights near important fixed sites like power plants or airports. This affects drone operators and facility owners who want to keep the skies safe and secure. No new costs yet, just extra time to weigh in and help shape the rules.
2026-08943, Designation-Restrict the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft in Close Proximity to a Fixed Site Facility
The FAA is proposing new rules to keep drones away from certain important fixed sites like power plants or airports to keep everyone safe and secure. If you own or operate one of these sites, you can request a drone flight restriction zone to protect your property and people nearby. Comments are open until July 6, 2026, and these changes could affect drone pilots and site operators, but no big costs are expected.
2025-04846, Extension of the Prohibition Against Certain Flights in the Territory and Airspace of Libya
The FAA is extending the ban on certain flights over Libya for three more years, until March 20, 2028. This affects U.S. airlines, commercial operators, and pilots with FAA certificates flying in Libyan airspace, due to ongoing safety risks. The rule also reminds everyone how to apply for special approvals or exemptions if needed.
2025-03853, Enforcement Policy Regarding “Drug and Alcohol Testing of Certificated Repair Station Employees Located Outside of the United States; Correction”
The FAA is giving repair stations outside the U.S. a break by delaying enforcement of new drug and alcohol testing rules until March 20, 2025. This means affected repair stations don’t have to worry about penalties if they aren’t fully following the updated rules just yet. The delay helps everyone get ready without rushing or extra costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-21855, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Helicopters
If you fly certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland models, listen up! The FAA found cracks in the rescue hoist cable drums, which could be dangerous. Starting December 1, 2026, helicopter owners must regularly check these parts and fix or replace them if needed to keep flying safe and legal.
Next: 2026-21861, Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
The FAA is requiring certain Airbus A330-941 airplanes to upgrade their flight control computers by December 1, 2026, after a serious fault was found during landing. This fix stops unsafe computer errors and bans some old parts to keep flights safe. Airlines will need to act quickly to install these updates, which might cost some money but will make flying safer.