Federal Register #2026-13540

FAA Airworthiness Directives for Airbus H160B Helicopters: Inspection and Modification Requirements

This opportunity relates to new airworthiness directives issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for Airbus Helicopters Model H160B: - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation - OEM Highlight: - Airbus Helicopters is the primary Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) affected - Products/Services Requested: - Inspection of hinge pins on jettisonable window systems for missing retaining rings - Installation of any missing retaining rings found - Modification of affected windows on helicopters modified by STC SR00223IB due to non-conforming cable kits - Prohibition of installation of affected windows or doors with non-conforming cable kits - Technical Details: - Compliance required with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2025-0161 - Reference to Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB H160-52-200002 - Quantities: - Inspection and corrective actions apply to 12 U.S.-registered Airbus H160B helicopters - Unique Requirements: - Focus on safety inspections and corrective actions rather than procurement of new products - Addresses potential evacuation safety risks due to missing retaining rings or loose self-locking nuts - Estimated inspection cost per helicopter is $170 - No specific part numbers or new product procurement; actions are regulatory and corrective in nature

Description

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports of missing retaining rings on the hinge pins installed on the jettisonable window systems. It requires inspecting all hinge pins for missing retaining rings and installing any missing rings found. The AD aims to address the unsafe condition that could prevent a window from jettisoning, potentially affecting occupant evacuation during an emergency.

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