Federal Register #2026-13064

FAA Directive: Modification of Airbus H160B Helicopter Windows for Safety Compliance

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), under the Department of Transportation, has issued an airworthiness directive (AD) targeting Airbus Helicopters Model H160B helicopters due to a safety issue with the window jettisoning system. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch - OEM Highlight: - Airbus Helicopters is the primary Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) referenced - Products/Services Requested: - Modification of passenger windows on all affected Airbus Helicopters Model H160B - Estimated 40 windows across 10 helicopters in the U.S. registry - Modification involves removing and installing a specified cable kit to address self-locking nut loosening - Compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20240063 is required - Prohibition on installation of affected windows or doors - Notable Requirements: - Strict adherence to EASA AD procedures, with FAA-specific exceptions and clarifications - No flights over water permitted for special flight permits - Estimated cost for compliance is $4,237 per helicopter - No specific part numbers provided; focus is on modification and compliance actions - Additional Related Directive: - FAA also issued a directive for Airbus Helicopters AS350 series (inspection/replacement of cargo hooks), but the primary focus here is on H160B window modifications

Description

This final rule airworthiness directive (AD) applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model H160B helicopters. It addresses a non-conformity in cable kits affecting the window jettisoning system, requiring modification of affected windows to serviceable condition and prohibiting installation of affected windows or doors. The AD aims to prevent failure of the jettisoning function of the window, which could result in the inability to evacuate helicopter occupants during an emergency. Compliance with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 20240063 is required with specified exceptions. The AD is effective August 3, 2026.

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