Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters – Inspections for Vertical Fin Spar Cracks
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
The FAA has issued Airworthiness Directive 2026-07-08 requiring repetitive inspections of the vertical upper fin spar on all Airbus Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters. This AD was prompted by a reported structural crack in the vertical attachment spar of the tail fin. Operators must perform initial cleaning and visual inspections, followed by repetitive borescope inspections or repeat visual checks every inspection cycle. If cracks are found, the upper fin must be replaced. The directive also prohibits installation of certain upper fin assemblies with affected part numbers and provides terminating action by installing the reinforced fin spar part number 355A14-0522-1751. This AD is effective May 11, 2026 and affects 177 U.S.-registered helicopters.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Requires initial cleaning and visual inspection of vertical upper fin spar (2.5 work-hours, $213 per helicopter)
- Mandates repetitive borescope inspections (0.5 work-hour, $43 per helicopter per cycle) or repeat initial inspection
- Effective date: May 11, 2026
+ 3 more changes with Pro