The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD) for some Airbus Helicopters Model H160-B, due to reports of difficulties with the jettisoning function of the helicopter windows. This directive requires regular lubrication, operational testing, and necessary corrective action for the locking fingers on the windows to prevent failure, which could impede emergency evacuation. This directive follows a European mandate and becomes effective on May 2, 2025, with comments requested by June 2, 2025. The FAA emphasizes the urgency of these actions for aviation safety, bypassing the typical public comment period.
Simple Explanation
Imagine there are special windows on some flying machines that need to open quickly in an emergency. Some of these windows were getting stuck, so a big group of safety people decided they need to be checked and oiled regularly to make sure they work properly.