The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new airworthiness directive (AD) for various models of Airbus Helicopters due to concerns about engine compartment fires linked to aluminum firewall stiffeners. This rule requires replacing the aluminum stiffeners with titanium ones, as they are better at handling high temperatures. The directive, effective April 11, 2025, aims to prevent engine fires from spreading and potentially causing a loss of control of the helicopter. The rule assumes a cost for compliance, including labor and parts, and affects 35 helicopters registered in the U.S.
Simple Explanation
The FAA wants some helicopters to switch an important part from being made of aluminum to being made of titanium to stop fires from getting worse and make flying safer. This change affects 35 helicopters in the U.S. and some people think it might cost a lot, but they haven't explained that part very well.