Emergency Airworthiness Directive for Certain Bell 505 Helicopters Issued by FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an emergency Airworthiness Directive 2026-05-51 for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505 helicopters. This addresses a critical safety issue that could result in total loss of control if left unchecked.
The directive, effective from April 16, 2026, applies to Bell Model 505 helicopters with serial numbers 65011 and subsequent. These helicopters are equipped with specific ballast box assemblies (part numbers SLS-706-201-207 or SLS-706-201-207FM). The emergency order was prompted by the discovery of possible plastic deformation and improper pin engagement in the hinge assembly on the aft movable ballast box. This could potentially allow ballast weights to escape and strike the tail rotor assembly.
The AD requires operators to revise the Rotorcraft Flight Manual to prohibit the use of ballast weights within the affected aft movable ballast box assembly. This action follows a similar emergency order issued by Transport Canada on March 3, 2026, after issues were discovered during a post-flight inspection.
Source: Federal Register