Federal Register #FAA-2026-11812

FAA proposes fuel-system and cargo-hook-beam safety changes for Airbus MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters

The FAA proposes a safety directive for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters, not a purchase solicitation. - Government buyer: U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). - OEM: Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD); the affected aircraft are Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. - Safety concern: An installed common cargo hook beam (CCHB) could damage the fuel system, causing fuel leakage and potentially a fire after a survivable accident. The FAA estimates 28 U.S.-registered helicopters are affected. - Proposed compliance actions: Modify the fuel system; install four improved fuel pump cartridges per helicopter; and modify the helicopter to install or retrofit a CCHB and add structural reinforcement. The attachment lists both installing a new CCHB and retrofitting a CCHB as actions. - Part restriction: Installation of an affected CCHB, including part number L851M1301101, would be prohibited. - Related authority: The proposal references European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2025-0153 and its compliance procedures. - Procurement status: No products or services are being solicited for purchase; no contract value, procurement quantity, or performance period is specified.

Description

The FAA proposes a new airworthiness directive covering all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. Certification test results indicated that an installed common cargo hook beam could cause fuel leakage following a survivable accident, potentially leading to a fire. The proposed directive would require modification of the cargo hook beam and fuel system and installation of structural reinforcement, and would prohibit installing a certain cargo hook beam on any helicopter. Comments are due by November 30, 2026.

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