Bell helicopters need a check for a missing washer on the tail rotor

US aviation regulators are proposing a mandatory inspection for certain Bell 505 helicopters. This is to check for a washer that might be missing from the tail rotor assembly, which could make the helicopter unsafe.

A small part, if installed incorrectly, can cause a helicopter to crash. This proposed rule means that helicopter owners and operators will have to perform a specific check to ensure safety. It highlights how even minor manufacturing errors can lead to widespread safety mandates.