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The FAA has published a Final Rule adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for several Airbus Helicopter models, including the AS332 and EC225LP. This directive was prompted by an alarming report of a helicopter losing its horizontal stabilizer during flight. The AD is set to take effect on March 18, 2026.
Operators are now required to perform detailed inspections of the horizontal stabilizer, including tightening torque and measuring attachment holes. If any discrepancies are found, corrective actions must be taken immediately. The directive also includes repetitive inspections to ensure the ongoing safety of the fleet.
This move follows an emergency AD issued by EASA, the European aviation authority, which identified similar risks. The FAA determined that the unsafe condition—a potential loss of control—required immediate regulatory action. This affects many commercial and utility operators within the United States.
The investigation revealed that cracks, nicks, and corrosion in the stabilizer attachment points could lead to catastrophic structural failure. The FAA's directive specifically mandates the replacement of certain parts and prohibits the installation of affected stabilizers unless they meet strict new safety requirements.
The agency is currently accepting public comments on this rule, even as it goes into effect. This "request for comments" period allows operators to provide feedback on the economic and operational impact of the directive. For many, this will mean temporary grounding of aircraft for intensive maintenance checks.
SUMMARY
New FAA directive targets Airbus AS332 and EC225LP models for safety checks.
The order was triggered by a mid-air loss of a horizontal stabilizer.
Mandatory inspections of attachment holes, brackets, and torque are now required.
Failure to address the condition could result in total loss of aircraft control.
The directive is effective March 18, 2026, with public comments invited.
HISTORY
Structural integrity of heavy-lift helicopters has been a focus of regulators for the past decade following several high-profile incidents in the North Sea. The Super Puma family, in particular, has seen multiple redesigns to its rotor and stabilizer systems.
The 2016 grounding of the H225 fleet following a gearbox failure in Norway.
Airbus introduced enhanced health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) in 2019.
2022 saw a major redesign of the horizontal stabilizer attachment for new builds.
EASA issued an emergency alert in early 2026 following a new incident report.
The 2026 FAA directive aligns U.S. safety standards with European findings.