FAA Targets Airbus Helicopters Where Pilots’ Pedals Can Stick
Published Date: 11/3/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FAA wants to fix a safety issue in certain Airbus Helicopters (AS350B2, AS350B3, and EC130B4) where a pilot’s pedal could get partly stuck. They’re proposing to require changing and marking a specific fuse cover and banning the old ones from being installed. Helicopter owners should act before December 18, 2026, to avoid risks and keep flying safely.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Prevents pilot pedal blocking (safety)
The rule targets a reported partial blocking of a pilot pedal caused by interference with a partially detached fuse cover to prevent reduced yaw control. The proposed AD would require the modification and reidentification of the affected fuse covers on AS350B2, AS350B3, and EC130B4 helicopters to address that unsafe condition.
Required fuse-cover change and costs
If you own or operate an Airbus Helicopters AS350B2, AS350B3, or EC130B4 in U.S. registry, the FAA proposes you must modify and reidentify certain fuse covers (P/N 350A76-2395-20, -21, or -23) and you may not install an affected fuse cover on any helicopter. The FAA estimates the action takes 2 work-hours at $85/hour (labor $170) plus $27 in parts, for a total cost of $197 per helicopter; the FAA estimates 1,034 helicopters in U.S. registry would be affected for a fleet cost of $203,698.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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