Proposed rule · 2026-02923

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Helicopters

The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all AHD Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, EC135T3, EC635T2+, MBB-BK 117 C-2, and MBB-BK 117 D- 2 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracks on the cable drum of the rescue hoist assembly. This proposed AD would require repetitively inspecting the cable drum of certain rescue hoist assemblies for cracks and depending on the results, replacing or repairing the cable drum of the rescue hoist assembly. This proposed AD would also prohibit the operation and the installation of an affected rescue hoist assembly on a helicopter, unless certain requirements are met. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.