AD 2026-16-02: Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters

What the FAA requires

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a quality escape in the production installation of a washer installed on the tail rotor pitch link assembly (pitch link assembly). This AD requires a one-time visual inspection for proper installation of the washer installed on the pitch link assembly and, depending on the results of the inspection, corrective actions. 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 Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters, certificated in any category, as identified in Transport Canada AD CF-2025-34, dated July 3, 2025 (Transport Canada AD CF-2025-34). (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6400, Tail rotor system. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of a quality escape in the production installation of a washer installed on the tail rotor pitch link assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect proper installation. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in fracture of the pitch horn stud due to fatigue or when the rotor blade exceeds the travel during certain control inputs and blade flappin

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.