FAA Airworthiness Directive Orders Urgent Inspections for PW210-Powered S-92 and AW189 Helicopters

The FAA has issued an airworthiness directive that puts some helicopter operators on a 5-hour inspection countdown. Models affected include the Sikorsky S-92 and Leonardo AW189 powered by Pratt andamp; Whitney Canada Model PW210A, PW210A1 and PW210S engines, with the earliest inspections required once it becomes effective on July 14, 2026. Airworthiness Directive The airworthiness directive (AD) docket (FAA-2026-4665) states that the listed engines may have cracks in the circumference of the turbine exhaust frame external surface, which is caused by thermal stress from engine starts. A manufacturer investigation revealed that the frame's wall did not meet the minimum required thickness. If not fixed, this could cause the turbine exhaust frame to fail and lead to loss of axial containment, parts being lost and damage to the helicopter. The FAA took an unusual step to issue this directive without first seeking public comment, citing "good cause" after receiving reports of multiple cracked turbine exhaust frames. Because the crack growth rate is unknown, the FAA concluded that any delay would create an unacceptable safety risk. The FAA requires repetitive visual inspections of the turbine exhaust frame for cracks. Small cracks trigger a more frequent inspection schedule and cracks over 9.5 inches in length require frame replacement. It is estimated that 48 U.S.-registered engines are affected, an inspection at about $42.50 per engine, and a turbine exhaust frame replacement at about $125,765 per engine if one is required. The urgency comes from the short timeframe that some operators have. Helicopters with 7,000 cycles and 2,000 engine hours or more are first in line and required to undergo repetitive visual inspections. The inspection and replacement must be accomplished within 5 hours' time-in-service or 20 engine starts after the effective date, whichever comes first. Additional compliance schedules are mandated via Transport Canada AD CF-2026-23. Market Impact Operators with helicopters that use these engines will need to schedule an inspection sooner rather than later and adjust their budgets for the downtime, inspection and potential replacement. Buyers should add turbine exhaust frame inspection status and engine cycles since new to their prebuy checklist to ensure that the previous owners were compliant with the pricey AD. Likewise, sellers should have the compliance done before listing and documented for a smoother transaction. The AD is considered an interim action, with it being open until Aug. 13 (and accepting further comments). The FAA may still consider further rulemaking. Operators should keep an eye on the situation until then.