New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority has advised MD 369 helicopter operators to arrange inspections after reports of corrosion and cracking in pilot collective controls.
Notice 27-033 was published and became effective on October 29, 2026. It covers all MD 369 series operators and maintenance providers.
What prompted the advisory
The CAA says defects were found during scheduled inspections. Further examination sometimes revealed damage more extensive than the initial signs suggested. One pilot reported intermittent throttle friction; investigation found a cracked collective-stick fitting.
The recommendation
Operators are advised to request inspection of the collective tube and housing socket at the next appropriate maintenance opportunity, following the helicopter’s maintenance instructions. The notice asks for damage findings to be reported and says the CAA will liaise with the manufacturer.
This is a Continuing Airworthiness Notice. The CAA explains that compliance with CAN recommendations is not mandatory; the notice should not be presented as a fleet grounding.
Sources: CAA notice 27-033 and CAA’s explanation of CANs.
