Helicopter Pilots: Check That Stuck Control Stick Now!
Published Date: 3/3/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly an Airbus EC120B helicopter, listen up! The FAA found a problem where a part on the pilot’s control stick might be in the wrong spot, making it hard to move the stick fully. Starting April 7, 2026, owners must check this part and fix it if needed to keep flights safe—this is a one-time fix that helps avoid costly issues later.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
EC120B Pilot Stick Inspection Required
If you own or operate an Airbus Helicopters EC120B, you must do a one-time inspection of the bonding braid position on the pilot cyclic stick and, if needed, correct its position and install a binding clamp. The AD is effective April 7, 2026, applies to 72 U.S.-registered EC120B helicopters, and the FAA estimates the inspection takes 1 work-hour costing $85 per helicopter (total estimated cost to U.S. operators $6,120); any required repair is also estimated at 1 work-hour ($85). The AD was issued because incorrect braid positioning could limit full cyclic movement and could lead to loss of control in flight.
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