Federal Register #FAA-2026-11795

Proposed FAA airworthiness directive for Airbus Helicopters AS355 models

The Federal Aviation Administration proposes updated safety requirements for specified Airbus Helicopters AS355 models. - Government buyer and issuing office: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). - OEM: Airbus Helicopters, manufacturer of the affected aircraft. The proposal also refers to requirements from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). - Aircraft covered: Airbus Helicopters AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP. - Proposed requirements: Operators would incorporate new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks into the applicable maintenance documentation and approved maintenance or inspection programs. - Safety purpose and scope: The action is intended to prevent failure of critical parts or primary structural components that could cause loss of helicopter control. The FAA estimates 60 U.S.-registered helicopters would be affected, with an estimated compliance cost of $85 per helicopter. - Procurement relevance: This is a proposed safety rule, not a solicitation for products or services; no products, service quantities, or contract value are specified.

Description

The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive 2026-10-16, which applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters. The proposed rule would require incorporating new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks into the applicable maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness and approved maintenance or inspection program. The FAA states the action is intended to prevent failure of critical parts and primary structural components that could result in loss of helicopter control. Comments are due by November 16, 2026.

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