Civil aviation authorities in Norway and the United Kingdom plan to remove restrictions that have barred the use of Airbus Helicopters H225 LP and AS332 L2 Super Pumas in commercial operations ever since a fatal accident in Norway in April 2016.
The U.K. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said Friday that the restrictions would be lifted because Airbus Helicopters has developed modifications, including design changes involving components “that were susceptible to premature deterioration” and more frequent inspections.
The affected helicopters — used extensively in North Sea oil and natural gas operations — will be permitted to return to operation after implementation of “a plan of checks, modifications and inspections,” and after individual operators ensure that they have taken required steps, the CAA said.
“Thi…
