Specific Leonardo helicopters cannot fly without a one-time safety check

The US aviation regulator wants a mandatory safety check for several models of Leonardo helicopters. Owners must inspect a specific bearing and fix it if needed. Otherwise, the helicopters cannot legally fly.

Helicopters have a critical part called a swashplate duplex bearing. It helps control the rotor blades. An incorrectly installed one can cause problems. This rule makes sure every affected helicopter gets this part checked. It prevents a known failure from happening.