More helicopter models must get inspected for cracks, but a new fix ends repeat checks

The US aviation regulator wants to expand mandatory crack inspections to more models of Leonardo S.p.A. helicopters. This means more helicopter owners will have to check for cracks, but a new repair will stop the need for repeated inspections.

Helicopter parts can crack, and those cracks can cause accidents. For years, the solution was to keep checking for cracks. Now, a permanent fix is available. This shifts the burden from ongoing maintenance to a one-time repair, making these helicopters safer and potentially cheaper to operate over time.