FAA proposes ADs for Airbus helicopters covering tail rotor, limitations, parts ID and
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration has issued several proposed airworthiness directives for multiple Airbus Helicopter models. The directives address tail‑rotor control failures, updated maintenance limitations, mis‑identified drive‑fan components and inadequate emergency‑exit labeling.
The FAA proposes a new AD for certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH helicopters after a loss of tail‑rotor control caused by a broken yaw‑actuator control rod, requiring a one‑time inspection of the ball pivot, yaw actuator assembly, possible part replacement, sealing compound application and prohibiting installation of affected parts unless serviceable.1 The FAA proposes to supersede AD 2026‑10‑16 for all AS355 series helicopters, mandating revision of the airworthiness‑limitations section of the existing maintenance manual to incorporate new or more restrictive limitations.2 The FAA adopts an AD for AS355 series helicopters because tail‑rotor drive fan wheels and impeller second stages were incorrectly identified during production, requiring serial‑number verification, log‑card amendment, a one‑time borescope inspection and, depending on results, replacement or re‑identification of the parts, while prohibiting their installation on any helicopter.3 The FAA adopts an AD for a range of Airbus Helicopter models after determining that sliding‑door emergency‑exit instructions are insufficient, requiring installation of additional safety labels or replacement of existing labels.4 The required inspections and part replacements will increase maintenance workload and aircraft downtime for operators.13 Revising the airworthiness‑limitations section changes maintenance planning and compliance tracking for airlines and operators.2 Prohibitions on installing certain fan wheels and impeller stages affect parts inventory and supply‑chain management for distributors.13