NTSB Issues Safety Recommendation A-17-008 to FAA Regarding Airbus Helicopters

The National Transportation Safety Board, identified by reference number CEN15MA290, has issued safety recommendation A-17-008 to the Federal Aviation Administration. This directive specifically addresses existing Airbus Helicopters dual-hydraulic AS350-series helicopters. The board requires that these aircraft be equipped with both visual and aural alerts designed to warn pilots of the loss of hydraulic boost to the pedal controls. Such a failure would result in significantly increased pedal loads, posing a risk to flight safety. The recommendation aims to ensure that operators are immediately notified of this critical system degradation through redundant warning mechanisms.