AD 2026-06-01: Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters

What the FAA requires

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with a certain supplemental type certificate (STC) installed. This AD was prompted by the absence of instructions on the information placards located next to the rear-facing seats to lock the seat headrest in the highest position during takeoff and landing. This AD requires revising the existing rotorcraft flight manual supplement (RFMS) and replacing the information placard with one that specifies instructions for locking the seat headrest. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Read the full directive on the Federal Register →

Applicability

This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters having serial number 31087, 31133, 31269, 31305, 31351, 31502, 31712, 31735, 31757, 31865, 31869, 41582 and 41583, certificated in any category, modified in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00049IB. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 1100, Placards and Markings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the absence of instructions on the information placards located next to the rear-facing seats to lock the seat headrest in the highest position during take-off and landing. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent the incorrect position of the seat headrest during take-off and landin

Part numbers this directive names

This directive does not name specific part numbers in its text; it applies by aircraft model. See the applicability above and the manufacturer's service bulletin it references.