Federal Register #2026-11174

FAA Airworthiness Directive for Airbus H160-B Jettisonable Window System

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, has issued a regulatory airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B helicopters modified by Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00223IB. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Aircraft Certification Service, Compliance & Airworthiness Division - OEMs and Key Entities: - Airbus Helicopters (primary OEM) - Mecaer Aviation Group (MAG) (STC and component provider) - European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (referenced for procedures) - Products/Services and Requirements: - Removal and inspection of jettisonable window systems (6 per helicopter) - Replacement of locking fingers and retaining rings if defects are found - Inspection and replacement of emergency handle latch covers - Repetitive lubrication and operational testing of the jettisonable window system - Modification of helicopters by replacing left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) side covers - Prohibition on installation of certain window aesthetic covers (P/N 6A6H5600A002001XYZ) and electrochromic windows (P/N 6A6H5600A001001XYZ) unless compliance is met - Notable Requirements: - Compliance with referenced EASA ADs and service bulletins - Focus on ensuring the jettisoning function for emergency evacuation - Estimated compliance costs include labor and parts for inspections, replacements, and modifications - This is a regulatory safety action, not a procurement or contract opportunity.

Description

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B helicopters modified by Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00223IB. This AD addresses deficiencies in the jettisonable window system, requiring removal and inspection of the window, replacement of locking fingers if needed, inspection and installation of retaining rings, and inspection or replacement of emergency handle latch covers. It also mandates repetitive lubrication and operational tests of the jettisonable window system, modification of the helicopter by replacing covers, and prohibits installation of certain window aesthetic covers or electrochromic windows unless requirements are met. The AD aims to prevent failure of the jettisoning function, which could impede evacuation during emergencies.

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