FAA Issues Emergency Directive for Bell 505 Helicopters Due to Safety Concerns
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an Emergency Airworthiness Directive 2026-05-51 on March 6, 2026. This directive addresses a critical safety concern with certain Bell 505 helicopters. If left unchecked, this issue could result in a total loss of control.
This emergency order is applicable to Bell Model 505 helicopters with serial numbers 65011 and subsequent models. These models are equipped with specific ballast box assemblies (part numbers SLS-706-201-207 or SLS-706-201-207FM). The directive was issued following the discovery of potential plastic deformation and improper pin engagement in the hinge assembly on the aft movable ballast box assembly. This defect could allow ballast weights to escape, potentially striking the tail rotor assembly.
The AD necessitates an immediate revision of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual Limitations section. This revision will prohibit the use of ballast weights within the aft movable ballast box assembly until proper modifications can be completed.
This emergency action was taken just days after Transport Canada issued its own emergency directive CF-2026-12 on March 3, 2026. This directive was issued following a post-flight inspection that revealed the hinge assembly fault.
Bell Textron Canada Limited has since developed a modification to address this safety issue permanently. This modification involves a longer two-inch hinge assembly and an adjusted rubber pad thickness on the door.
Source: Aero News