Federal Register #FAA-2026-8786

FAA Proposed Directive: Inspection and Replacement of Airbus Helicopters Emergency Sea Anchors

This opportunity concerns a proposed FAA airworthiness directive for Airbus Helicopters emergency sea anchor systems: - Government Buyer: - Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - OEM Highlight: - Airbus Helicopters is the sole OEM referenced, with all affected products manufactured by Airbus Helicopters - Products/Services Requested: - Inspection of emergency sea anchors for corrosion on Airbus Helicopters models AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP - Estimated 44 inspections required - Replacement of emergency sea anchors if corrosion is detected - No specific part numbers provided; applies to all emergency sea anchors installed on the listed models - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 20250278R1 is mandatory - Only new or properly inspected emergency sea anchors may be installed - Installation of a locally made plug is permitted if manufactured according to specified instructions - The directive is intended to prevent anchor pin failure, rotor damage, and potential loss of helicopter control

Description

The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2025-17-03, which applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters. The current AD requires inspecting the emergency sea anchor and replacing it if necessary. The proposed AD retains these requirements and adds an additional inspection of the emergency sea anchor to address corrosion issues that could lead to failure and loss of control of the helicopter. Comments on this proposal must be received by October 8, 2026.

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