FAA proposes inspections on nearly 1,000 Airbus helicopters over servo-control washer issue

The FAA has proposed mandatory inspections for close to 1,000 Airbus helicopters after a defect was found that could let a main rotor servo-control link separate in flight. The proposal, published Monday, covers versions of the AS350, AS355 and EC130 families.

The problem centres on a lock washer that can stop holding the correct tightening torque when paint or protective coating sits on its surface. The FAA said the condition, if left unaddressed, could detach the upper ball bearing end from the servo-control and lead to a loss of control.

Models in scope include aircraft used for firefighting, law enforcement, sightseeing and air medical work. The AS350B3, sold as the H125, is part of the AStar line; the EC130 family includes the H130, widely flown in passenger transport and air-medical roles. Airbus issued service bulletins on the issue in April, and European regulators made inspections compulsory in July.

The proposal calls for checks on all three main rotor servo-controls, with further inspections once affected parts are removed and refitted. Depending on what is found, operators could face repairs ranging from cleaning threads to swapping out whole servo-control assemblies.

The action follows earlier concerns about the same connection on Airbus Dauphin and EC155 helicopters. In 2025 the FAA required inspections after two reports of lost tightening torque, one of which involved a connection coming apart. Investigators traced the cause to paint on a lock washer, and European regulators widened their inspection requirements as a result.