FAA mandates inspections for Sikorsky S-61N helicopters after tail rotor failure risk identified
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The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a new airworthiness directive requiring operators of certain Sikorsky S-61N helicopters to perform specific safety checks. This rule addresses an unsafe condition where fatigue fractures in the yaw pedal damper housing or its attachment bolts could lead to a loss of auxiliary system fluid.
Why it matters: This action prevents a specific mechanical failure mode that has already caused accidents. By requiring repetitive visual inspections and magnetic particle testing of critical components, the FAA aims to catch cracks before they lead to catastrophic failures. While the safety stakes are high for those flying these aircraft, the immediate administrative impact is limited to compliance with new inspection schedules.
Who it affects
- Owners and operators of 76 Sikorsky S-61N helicopters registered in the United States
This rule was issued by the Federal Aviation Administration under the Transportation Department; readers should verify the full text of Airworthiness Directive 2026-11-05 before relying on this summary for compliance purposes.
Agency: Transportation Department, Federal Aviation Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document