Federal Register #FAA-2026-4644

FAA Airworthiness Directive for Airbus Helicopters EC130T2: Tail Rotor Drive Shaft Modification and Inspection

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model EC130T2 to address excessive tail rotor drive shaft vibration and prevent potential loss of yaw control. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch - OEM Highlight: - Airbus Helicopters is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for the EC130T2 helicopter - Products/Services Requested: - Installation of manufacturer-developed modification, including: - Modified rear drive shaft - Sliding flange - Equipped splined sleeve - Repetitive inspection of tail rotor drive shaft vibration level (estimated 108 helicopters affected) - On-condition replacement of sliding flange and splined sleeve - On-condition balance correction (only if performed concurrently with part replacement) - Notable Requirements: - Compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20240144 is mandatory - Prohibition on installation of certain parts and restrictions on balance correction unless specific requirements are met - Estimated parts cost up to $61,716 per helicopter; labor for inspection and installation specified at $85 per hour - Place of Performance and Oversight: - FAA Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177 - FAA Aviation Safety Engineer Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590

Description

The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023-25-14, which applies to certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC130T2 helicopters. The proposed AD requires installing a manufacturer-developed modification of the rear drive shaft, sliding flange, and equipped splined sleeve, and repetitively inspecting the vibration level of the tail rotor drive shaft. It also prohibits the installation of certain parts and the performance of a balance correction unless specific requirements are met. This action addresses an unsafe condition that could result in failure of the tail rotor drive shaft and loss of yaw control of the helicopter.

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