FAA proposes stricter airworthiness limits for Airbus AS350 helicopters

The FAA proposes to supersede AD 2026-12-09 for Airbus AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, and AS350D helicopters, adding more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. The change follows a determination that current limits are insufficient, though specific failure modes or incidents are not cited. This affects fleet operators and maintenance programs, with compliance costs and potential grounding implications.