Proposed Rule2025-11212
Airworthiness Directives; Hélicoptères Guimbal Helicopters
Primary source
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Published
June 18, 2025
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Aviation Administration
Abstract
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal (HG) Model Cabri G2 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracked main rotor swashplates (swashplates). This proposed AD would require repetitively inspecting certain swashplates for cracks and, depending on the results, removing and replacing each cracked swashplate. This proposed AD would also prohibit installing an affected swashplate unless it has passed the proposed inspection requirements. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 90 Issue 116 (Wednesday, June 18, 2025)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 90, Number 116 (Wednesday, June 18, 2025)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 25906-25909]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2025-11212]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2025-1102; Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00183-R]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal
Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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[[Page 25907]]
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for all H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal (HG) Model Cabri G2
helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of cracked main
rotor swashplates (swashplates). This proposed AD would require
repetitively inspecting certain swashplates for cracks and, depending
on the results, removing and replacing each cracked swashplate. This
proposed AD would also prohibit installing an affected swashplate
unless it has passed the proposed inspection requirements. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this NPRM by August 4, 2025.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
<bullet> Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a>. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
<bullet> Fax: (202) 493-2251.
<bullet> Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
<bullet> Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2025-1102; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
<bullet> For Guimbal material identified in this proposed AD,
contact H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal, 1070, rue du Lieutenant
Parayre, A[eacute]rodrome d'Aix-en-Provence, 13290 Les Milles, France;
phone: 33-04-42-39-10-88; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#fd8e888d8d928f89bdc19cdd958f989bc0" http: guimbal.com">guimbal.com</a>">support@<a href="http://guimbal.com">guimbal.com</a></a>; or at
<a href="http://guimbal.com">guimbal.com</a>.
<bullet> You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Weir, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (817)
222-4045; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#a6c1c3c9d4c1c388c788d1c3cfd4e6c0c7c788c1c9d0"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="b8dfddd7cadfdd96d996cfddd1caf8ded9d996dfd7ce">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2025-1102;
Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00183-R'' at the beginning of your
comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the
proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include
supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to
<a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a>, including any personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this NPRM.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to
George Weir, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, NY 11590. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is
not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket
for this rulemaking.
Background
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued
EASA AD 2024-0071, dated March 14, 2024 (EASA AD 2024-0071) (also
referred to as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition on HG
Model Cabri G2 helicopters, all serial numbers. The MCAI states that
occurrences were reported where, during maintenance, cracks were found
on the rotating and non-rotating part of the swashplates of two HG
Model Cabri G2 helicopters. HG concluded that the cracks were likely
caused by aging and corrosion.
The MCAI states that this condition, if not detected and corrected,
could lead to failure of the swashplate, which could result in loss of
control of the helicopter. The MCAI requires inspecting each swashplate
and, if there are any cracks, replacing each cracked swashplate before
the next flight. The MCAI allows installing an affected swashplate on a
helicopter provided that, before installation, it is inspected and no
cracks are found.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2025-1102.
Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Guimbal Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 24-001,
Revision C, dated March 20, 2024 (Guimbal SB 24-001 C), which specifies
procedures for performing repetitive inspections of the six arms from
both the rotating and non-rotating swashplate part number G41-00-000
for cracks, replacing any cracked swashplate, and contacting HG
support. If there is doubt about the existence of a crack or if there
is paint damage or peeling, Guimbal SB 24-001 C specifies removing the
paint and further inspecting for cracks. If no crack is found, Guimbal
SB 24-001 C specifies touching up the paint in areas where paint was
removed before approving the helicopter for return to service.
This material is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
FAA's Determination
These products have been approved by the aviation authority of
another country and are approved for operation in the United States.
Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design
Authority, it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in
the MCAI and material referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM
after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is
likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.
Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM
This proposed AD would require removing the paint on each
swashplate and performing repetitive visual
[[Page 25908]]
inspections of the six arms of the rotating and non-rotating
swashplates for a crack. Depending on the results, this proposed AD
would require removing any cracked swashplate from service and
replacing the swashplate with an airworthy part, or repainting the
swashplate. This proposed AD would also prohibit installing an affected
swashplate unless the part is inspected prior to installation and
thereafter as identified in the proposed AD.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI
The material referenced in the MCAI specifies removing paint if
there is doubt regarding if there is a crack or if there is paint
damage, and this proposed AD requires removing the paint before
performing each inspection.
The material referenced in the MCAI specifies contacting HG support
after replacing the swashplate, whereas this proposed AD would not
require that action.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would
affect 59 helicopters of U.S. registry. Labor rates are estimated at
$85 per hour. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this
proposed AD.
Inspecting a swashplate would take .25 work-hour for an estimated
cost of $22 per helicopter and $1,298 for the U.S. fleet, per
inspection cycle. Removing the paint and repainting the swashplate
would take .5 work-hour for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter and
$2,537 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. If required, replacing
a swashplate would take 6 work-hours and parts would cost about $7,066
for an estimated cost of $7,576 per helicopter.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed
regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal: Docket No. FAA-2025-1102;
Project Identifier MCAI-2024-00183-R.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive
(AD) by August 4, 2025.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal Model
Cabri G2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a main
rotor swashplate part number (P/N) G41-00-000 installed.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6230, Main Rotor
Mast/Swashplate.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of cracks on the rotating and
non-rotating parts of the swashplates. The FAA is issuing this AD to
detect and correct a cracked swashplate. The unsafe condition, if
not addressed, could lead to failure of a cracked swashplate, which
could result in loss of control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) Within the compliance time listed in table 1 to paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 60 hours
time in service (TIS) or 14 months, whichever occurs first, remove
the paint on each swashplate using P600 GRIT or equivalent abrasive
and visually inspect with a flashlight all six arms of both the
rotating and non-rotating swashplates for a crack, paying particular
attention to each face of each clevis arm as shown in the picture
under paragraph (a) of Guimbal Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 24-001,
Revision C, dated March 20, 2024 (Guimbal SB 24-001 C).
Table 1 to Paragraph (g)(1)
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Swashplate serial No. Initial compliance time
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801 through 1077 inclusive............. Within 30 hours TIS or 4
months, whichever occurs
first, after the effective
date of this AD.
1078 and higher........................ Within 60 hours TIS or 6
months, whichever occurs
first, after the effective
date of this AD.
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(2) If a crack is found on a swashplate during any inspection
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, before further flight,
remove the cracked swashplate from service and install an airworthy
swashplate.
(3) If no crack is found on any swashplate during an inspection
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, retouch all areas of each
swashplate where paint was removed by following paragraph (d) of
Guimbal SB 24-001 C.
(h) Parts Installation Limitation
As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a swashplate
having P/N G41-00-000 on any helicopter, unless it has been
inspected in accordance with paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for any inspection and associated actions
required by paragraph (g) of this AD if you performed that
inspection before the effective date of this AD using Guimbal
Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 24-001, Revision A, dated February 7,
2024, or Guimbal Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 24-001, Revision B,
dated March 13, 2024.
(j) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits are prohibited.
[[Page 25909]]
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of
this AD and email to: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#eaaba7a5a9aa8c8b8bc48d859c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="5a1b1715191a3c3b3b743d352c">[email protected]</span></a>.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(l) Additional Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact George Weir,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (817) 222-4045; email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4621232934212368276831232f340620272768212930"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="e285878d908587cc83cc95878b90a2848383cc858d94">[email protected]</span></a>.
(2) Guimbal material identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraph (m)(3) of this AD.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the material listed in this paragraph
under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Guimbal Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 24-001, Revision C,
dated March 20, 2024.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Guimbal material identified in this AD, contact
H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal, 1070, rue du Lieutenant Parayre,
A[eacute]rodrome d'Aix-en-Provence, 13290 Les Milles, France; phone:
33-04-42-39-10-88; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#0c7f797c7c637e784c306d2c647e696a31" http: guimbal.com">guimbal.com</a>">support@<a href="http://guimbal.com">guimbal.com</a></a>; or at <a href="http://guimbal.com">guimbal.com</a>.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
(5) You may view this material at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, visit <a href="http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations</a> or email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#f89e8ad691968b889d9b8c919796b896998a99d69f978e"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="0167732f686f7271646275686e6f416f6073602f666e77">[email protected]</span></a>.
Issued on June 13, 2025.
Christopher R. Parker,
Acting Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2025-11212 Filed 6-17-25; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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