FAA Requires Inspections on Airbus H160 Helicopter Tail Rotors
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Rule
Summary
If you fly or maintain Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B, listen up! Starting April 20, 2026, the FAA requires regular visual checks of the tail rotor’s rear damper to prevent it from rubbing against the drive shaft—a safety fix to keep flights smooth and safe. These inspections might cost some time and money but are crucial to avoid bigger problems down the line.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Potential rear damper replacement cost
If an inspection shows damage, replacing the rear damper could cost about $23,327 per helicopter. The FAA estimates replacement takes 8 work-hours ($680) plus parts costing $22,647, for a total of $23,327 per product.
Safety risk and U.S. fleet size affected
The AD responds to a report that the tail rotor drive rear shaft contacted the rear damper, which could lead to loss of yaw control if not fixed. The FAA estimates this AD affects nine helicopters on the U.S. registry and is intended to prevent degradation, failure, and potential loss of yaw control.
Mandatory visual checks starting Apr 20, 2026
If you operate or maintain an Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B, you must start repetitive visual inspections of the tail rotor rear damper beginning April 20, 2026. The rule requires following the inspection procedures in EASA AD 2025-0098 (incorporated by reference) and doing corrective actions if problems are found.
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