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FAA Orders Inspections of PW210 Turbines in Sikorsky, Leonardo Helicopters

June 26, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

FAA requires inspections of PW210 turbines due to exhaust frame cracks.
Issue affects PW210As, PW210A1s, and PW210Ss on US-registered helicopters.
Leonardo AW169s and Sikorsky S-76Ds are among affected models.
Operators must complete visual inspections within specified timeframes.

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Strategic Implications

This directive may indicate a growing concern about turbine reliability, which could impact the operational readiness of affected helicopters. The FAA's swift action suggests a potential safety risk, which may lead to increased scrutiny of similar engine models and could have implications for the maintenance and inspection protocols of helicopter operators.

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What Happened

US Regulator Acts After Transport Canada Issues Emergency Directive

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive requiring helicopter operators to inspect Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210 turbines due to a problem with exhaust frame cracks. The issue affects PW210As, PW210A1s, and PW210Ss, which power some Sikorsky and Leonardo helicopters, including the AW169 and S-76D models. Operators must complete visual inspections within specified timeframes, and those finding cracks exceeding 9.5in must ground the aircraft until the component is replaced. The FAA’s order follows a related emergency directive issued by Transport Canada in May, and was reported by FlightGlobal.

Source | Originally Published: June 26, 2026

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