The FAA is writing new rules for digital helicopter controls, one aircraft at a time

New safety rules are being proposed for a specific helicopter that uses a digital fly-by-wire control system. This means the US aviation regulator is figuring out how to certify advanced digital controls that current rules do not cover.

Aviation safety rules were written for mechanical control systems. Digital fly-by-wire systems are different. This document shows the US aviation regulator is adapting its rules to new technology, starting with a specific case. This could pave the way for more advanced digital control systems in other aircraft, but it is happening one approval at a time.