Federal Register #2026-13060

FAA Airworthiness Directives for Airbus Helicopters Cargo Hook and Airbus A321NX Fuselage Inspections

This opportunity concerns new airworthiness directives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) targeting Airbus aircraft and helicopter models. - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - OEMs Involved: - Airbus Helicopters - Airbus SAS - Products/Services Requested: - Inspection and possible replacement of cargo hooks on Airbus Helicopters AS350 series (models AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350D) - Estimated 898 helicopters affected - Requires inspection of the gap between the filler and side plates of the cargo hook - Replacement of the cargo hook if non-conformity is found - Prohibits installation of affected cargo hooks - Repetitive inspections of fuselage frame foot joint fastener holes on Airbus SAS A321NX series airplanes (models A321251NX, 252NX, 253NX, 271NX, 272NX) - Addresses manufacturing deviations and potential cracking - Requires corrective actions as needed - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Compliance with referenced Airbus Helicopters and Vision Systems service bulletins - Incorporation of European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) airworthiness directives - No specific part numbers provided; focus is on inspection, replacement, and compliance - Prohibition on installing non-conforming cargo hooks

Description

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, and AS350D. This AD was prompted by a report of non-conformity of a cargo hook. It requires inspecting the gap between the filler and side plates of the cargo hook and replacing it if necessary. The AD also prohibits installing an affected cargo hook on any helicopter. The effective date is August 3, 2026.

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