Superseding AD Proposed for AStar Vertical Fin Spar

The FAA has proposed to supersede AD 2021-20-16, which applies to certain AS350B3 and AS355 helicopters. AD 2021-20-16 was issued in October 2021 and requires repetitive cleaning and visual and detailed inspections of the right-hand side of the vertical fin spar and vertical fin upper attachments for discrepancies (cracking) with corrective action, if necessary. 

Since the FAA issued AD 2021-20-16, Airbus Helicopters developed a modification of the upper fin assembly. This proposed AD would require the same actions as AD 2021-20-16 and would also require replacement of the upper fin assembly with a modified upper fin assembly, which would constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections. 

You can view the proposed superseding AD here. Comments are due October 6, 2025.