FAA requires inspection of cargo hooks on certain Airbus helicopters

The Federal Aviation Administration is issuing a new safety rule for specific Airbus Helicopters, including the AS-350B series and AS-350D models. The rule mandates inspections to measure gaps in the cargo hook mechanism. If the gap exceeds safe limits, operators must replace the hook with one that does not have this design flaw.

Why it matters: This rule addresses a specific mechanical failure point that could lead to catastrophic loss of cargo. For operators, it means new inspection routines and potential part replacements. While the safety risk is real, the administrative burden is limited to checking existing equipment rather than grounding aircraft for extended periods.

Who it affects

• Owners and operators of Airbus Helicopters models AS-350B, AS 350BA, AS-350B1, AS-350B2, AS-350B3, and AS-350D in the United States.

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This summary is based on a final rule published by the Federal Aviation Administration in the Federal Register; readers should consult the original document at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2025-3999 for full legal details.

Agency: Transportation Department, Federal Aviation Administration
Source: Federal Register — read the official document