FAA Orders Pre-Flight Elevator Jams Check on Boeing Jets
Published Date: 5/8/2025
Rule
Summary
The FAA is making sure all Boeing DC-9 and MD-80 series airplanes check their elevator controls before takeoff to keep flights safe. Pilots must update their flight manuals with a new step to confirm elevators aren’t stuck in a risky position. This quick change helps prevent accidents without costing much time or money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Mandatory preflight elevator check for MD/DC‑9
If you fly on or operate Boeing DC-9 and MD-80 series airplanes, pilots and operators must revise the airplane flight manual to add a procedure confirming elevator surfaces are not jammed in the trailing edge down (TED) position before takeoff. The FAA adopted this airworthiness directive after discovering jammed elevators during takeoff and says the quick check keeps flights safe without costing much time or money.
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