Airworthiness Directives: Various Helicopters

Touchdown Aviation LLC opposes the proposed Airworthiness Directive, arguing that the mandatory modifications impose excessive costs and logistical burdens on small operators without sufficient evidence of a widespread safety crisis. The commenter suggests that the FAA should instead rely on enhanced inspection regimes and optional modifications to maintain safety while preserving the economic viability of the firefighting and utility helicopter fleets.

Air T&G Pty Ltd, an aircraft operator, opposes the proposed Airworthiness Directive (AD) due to its excessive compliance costs and lack of demonstrated safety necessity. The commenter argues that the mandatory hardware modifications are financially burdensome for small operators, especially in firefighting, and suggests that a more frequent inspection regime would be a more cost-effective and proportionate alternative.

Aerotech Helicopters, an owner and operator of restricted category UH-60 series aircraft, opposes the proposed Airworthiness Directive (AD) regarding tail rotor blade modifications. They argue that the existing inspection regime is sufficient, the proposed AD lacks a demonstrated safety basis, and it imposes significant costs and risks without providing a commensurate safety benefit.