Final rule · 2026-21855

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Helicopters

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, EC135T3, EC635T2+, MBB-BK 117 C-2, and MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks on the cable drum of the rescue hoist assembly. This AD requires 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 AD also prohibits the operation and the installation of an affected rescue hoist assembly on a helicopter, unless certain requirements are met. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.