Fixing cracks in CH-148 Cyclones requires different strategies

The Royal Canadian Air Force says different repair strategies will be required for each CH-148 Cyclone helicopter found with cracks in it.

"The location of the cracks on the tail structure are unique for each aircraft, although they are on the aircraft's frame and no cracking was found on the tail hinge or its components," the air forcesaid in a news release on Wednesday.

The air force said its engineering and technical experts are working closely with Sikorsky, the manufacturer, to restore the fleet to serviceability.

So far, repairs to one of the tail cracks onone of the helicopters has been completed. The air force saidit will attempt to provide more updates on the repair progress when possible.

The CH-148 Cyclone is Canada's main ship-borne maritime helicopter, providing support to the navy.